1 King of the universe, Lord of the ages,
maker of all things, sustainer of life;
source of authority, wise and just creator,
hope of the nations: we praise and adore.
2 Powerful in majesty, throned in the heavens
sun, moon and stars by your word are upheld;
time and eternity bow within your presence,
Lord of the nations: we praise and adore.
3 Wisdom unsearchable, fathomless knowledge
past understanding by our clever brain;
ground of reality, basis of all order,
guide to the nations: we praise and adore.
4 Justice and righteousness, holy, unswerving
all that is tainted shall burn in your flame;
sword - bearing deity, punisher of evil,
judge of the nations: we praise and adore.
5 Ruler and potentate, sage and lawgiver,
humbled before you, unworthy we bow:
in our extremity, show us your forgiveness,
merciful Father: we praise and adore.
Michael Saward (born 1932)
© Michael Saward/Jubilate Hymns
11 10 12 10 Dactylic
Suggested tune: RUSSIAN ANTHEM