At first I prayed for Light:
Could I but see the way,
How gladly, swiftly would I walk
To everlasting day.

And next I prayed for Strength:
That I might tread the road
With firm, unfaltering feet and win
The heaven's serene abode.

And then I asked for Faith:
Could I but trust my God,
I'd live enfolded in His peace,
Though foes were all abroad.

But now I pray for Love:
Deep love to God and man,
A living love that will not fail,
However dark his plan.

And Light and Strength and Faith
Are opening everywhere;
God only waited for me, till
I prayed the larger prayer.

These Are the Gifts I Ask
Henry Van Dyke

These are the gifts I ask of Thee,
Spirit serene:
Strength for the daily task,
Courage to face the road,
Good cheer to help me bear the traveler's load,
And, for the hours of rest that come between,
An inward joy of all things heard and seen.

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