God Alone

One for the Temptation in the Desert:

In garden verdure, fertile feast,
we scorned our service, worship ceased,
and so were overthrown.
So in a desert farther east
the savior scorns to be increased
and chooses God alone.

He turns from want and even need,
refuses to break fast and feed
on bread of sand and stone.
Whereas we chose excess and greed,
to be from mortal limits freed,
he chooses God alone.

We chose our glory and our power
(that rend ourselves and then devour)
our own selves to enthrone.
In barren lands and graces' shower
(and when at last shall come his hour)
he chooses God alone.

Oh, savior, lead us by your ways
through mournful nights and desert days
up to your wooden throne
and then beyond. Oh, mercy, raise
and grant us grace to sing your praise
and choose now God alone!