Henry Charles Beeching (1859–1919)

GOD who created me

Nimble and light of limb,

In three elements free,

To run, to ride, to swim:

Not when the sense is dim,

But now from the heart of joy,

I would remember Him:

Take the thanks of a boy.

Jesu, King and Lord,

Whose are my foes to fight,

Gird me with thy sword

Swift and sharp and bright.

Thee would I serve if I might;

And conquer if I can,

From day-dawn till night,

Take the strength of a man.

Spirit of Love and Truth,

Breathing in grosser clay,

The light and flame of youth,

Delight of men in the fray,

Wisdom in strength’s decay;

From pain, strife, wrong to be free,

This best gift I pray,

Take my spirit to Thee.