From the recording REFUGE
I met the American composer Dorothy Gates some years back when I was singing at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and she asked if she could perhaps write something for me. Within a few days, she supplied this wonderful arrangement of this simple but effective song that is often used as a song of consecration.
Lyrics
When from sin's dark hold Thy love had won me,
And its wounds Thy tender hands had healed,
As Thy blest commands were laid upon me,
Growing light my growing need revealed.
Thus I sought the path of consecration
When to Thee, dear Lord, my vows were given;
And the joy which came with full salvation
Winged my feet and filled my heart with Heaven.
But my heart at times with care is crowded,
Oft I serve with weak, o'erladen hands,
And that early joy grows dim and clouded
As each day its heavy toll demands.
Have I ceased from walking close beside Thee?
Have I grieved Thee with an ill kept vow?
In my heart of hearts have I denied Thee?
Speak, dear Lord, O speak and tell me now.
By the love that never ceased to hold me
In a bond nor life nor death shall break,
As Thy presence and Thy power enfold me,
I would plead fresh covenant to make.
From before Thy face, each vow renewing,
Strong in heart, with purpose pure and deep,
I will go henceforth Thy will pursuing,
With my Lord unbroken faith to keep.
CHORUS
By the love that never ceased to hold me,
By the blood which Thou didst shed for me,
While Thy presence and Thy power enfold me,
I renew my covenant with Thee.