Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 1

These are the hymn texts and song lyrics I've submitted for the 2019 “Great
Revision” – the LDS Church revising both the hymnal and the Children's
Songbook – at the same time! As the submission phase ended yesterday, we
are all taking a breath, relaxing, and then looking for the next project.
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 2

 The Angels' Voice 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018; CM

Rosh Hashanah (Feast of the Trumpets; Jewish New Year) marks the day that Israel crossed the Red
Sea and began a new life as a free nation. It marks the beginning of the Almighty's – a) once more
speaking to mankind, b) gathering His people, and c) restoring His commandments and covenants. The
Gold Plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated were given to Joseph Smith to take home
on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, symbolizing that the Almighty was set to – a) once more speak to
mankind, b) gather His people, and; c) restore His commandments and covenants. So when you see the
statue of the Angel Moroni on a nearby Latter-day Saint temple with his trumpet, remember for the
Fest of the Trumpets and the Restoration of the Gospel.

The angels' voice once more is heard

By those with ears to hear!
Proclaiming all our Father's words,
Erasing doubt and fear.

The angels once more gather sheep

Into the Shepherd's fold –
There Jacob's tribes they'll safely keep;
As in the days of old.

The angels once more guard the place

Where Israel gathers in –
All covenants with joy embrace,
Forsaking every sin.

The angels once more shine as flame –

Their fiery voices raise
To shout the great Jehovah's name,
His Love and Grace to praise.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 3

 Armor of Light (Short Version) 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2000, 2018, 2019; Irregular Meter

I had been looking for a way to teach the "Whole Armour of God" (Ephesians 6:10-20) to the
children.…and then started it with Romans 13:12.

1. Dark is the night, but soon comes the light –

The day is dawning with hope so bright.
Must cast off all the works of the night,
We must put on the Armor of Light. 1

2. Girted with truth we stand for what's true

And never waver, though we be few –
Righteousness is our breastplate so sure –
Our soul protected; from sin secure.

3 Feet that are shod in firm gospel truths

Will gain firm footing while still a youth.
We carry, too, our Faith as a shield,
Against which Evil will ever yield

4. Salvation's Hope – our helmet so strong2

To keep our minds pure our whole life long.
Mighty the sword - our Father’s Spirit,3
Will cut through Evil; His Truths invite.

5. Prayer gives us strength; it gives us the pow'r

To walk through darkness, what e'er the hour.
Gathered as one, we'll work to agree
Before we kneel, for aid to plea.4

___________________________________________

1...Whole Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-20; D&C 27:15-18; Armor of Light: Romans 13:12
2...Helmet of the Hope of Salvation: 1 Thessalonians 5:8
3...Sword the Word of God: Hebrews 4:12
4...Unity, even in Prayer: 1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 4:13
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 4

 Believe in Christ, for We do Know 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018, LM

I've made several attempts through the years to write something satisfactory on the themes concerning
Christ in 2 Nephi 25:23-26, but I wasn't happy with any of them (several of the 'rocks' in this booklet
as opposed to 'gems'). This is my latest attempt and the first one I am happy enough with that I will
now lay that scripture to rest and find another one to celebrate.

Believe in Christ, for we do know

That we are saved by His kind grace –
All we can do, we do to show
That by His side we seek a place.

We write of Christ to help persuade

All Men and Women to believe
That all good works will be repaid;
All promised blessings they'll receive.

We talk of Christ, that all may hear

His truths – such wondrous words of life!
Erasing all our doubt and fear;
Proclaiming Peace instead of strife.*

We preach of Christ, that all may learn

To look to Him in all their ways.
We prophecy, that they may turn
From sin, and give to Christ all Praise.

Rejoice in Christ, ye Saints of God;

O, let a joyful noise ring out!
Let Praise be heard near and abroad,
That all may know and never doubt.
_______________________________________

* Note: I actually like “Proclaiming Peace in place of strife” for the end of the third verse, but it's the
beginning of a tongue twister, all I could picture was the Weasley Twins in the fourth Harry Potter
movie with their tongue twister; not the picture one wants a hymn to produce in the singers' minds.
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 5

 A Child’s Thanksgiving Prayer 

by Bruce T. Forbes; 2001, 2018; CM

I thank Thee, Lord, for all Thy love;

For Thy felicity. [1]
In planting time and harvest time,
Thou hast been there for me.

I thank Thee for my family;

For all that they have done.
Their courage, comfort, charity -
My thanks for ev’ry one.

For my country, and for my flag –

Allegiance I will vow.
For Freedoms others do not know,
My heart and head I bow.

For Thy dear Son and His great love,

And what He's done for me –
For His strong arms that lead me Home,
My thanks I give to Thee.

_____________________________________

[1] intense joyfulness

 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 6

 Christmas Anthem 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2002, 2018; Suggested Tune: 'America',

which is used for ‘My Country ‘Tis of Thee’ & ‘God Save the King’. I wanted an anthem... and this is
an anthem tune...!

Born in a stable, bare - Our Father’s Son, so fair-

The Word made Flesh.
Born to save man from sin; Died to give Life again.
Our King; Eternal Friend!
Emanuel.

Shepherds heard angels sing News of the new-born King

On that bright night-
Humbly they sought Him out, Angels guiding their route-
They knelt and worshiped Him:
Their Good Shepherd.

Wise Men came from the East, Trav’ling by foot and beast -
Foll’wing God’s Light.
Earth’s richest gifts they gave To He who came to save
Those who have ears to hear
And eyes to see.

Dear Father, may we all Follow His graceful call -

"Come, Follow Me"
May our feet never stray From His strait, narrow way -
May we return to Thee
Led by Thy Son?
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 7

 Come Unto Christ 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004, 2018, 2019; Meter: Iambic 10's

Inspired by Moroni 10:32, Matthew 25:21

Come unto Christ, leave worldly ways behind -

Within His arms, Love's richest fullness find.
Deny thyself of all ungodly deeds,
That in thine heart perfection may take seed.

If then, through Him, thy love for God at length

Consumes thy mind and guides thy might and strength,
Sufficient be the blessings rained on thee -
His loving Grace, bestowed so full and free!

Lord, may Thy Grace our only fortress be;

And in Thine arms obtain divinity.
Perfected, then; this mortal trial won,
May we then hear the blessed words: "Well Done."
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 8

 Covenant Path 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018, 2019; CM

This began as I was asked to speak at a baptism, and I used the image of Baptism being the first gate
on the Path of Life, imagery from John Bunyans' 'The Pilgrim's Progress'. This was before President
Nelson began using the term 'Covenant Path,' and when he did I happily renamed my poem
accordingly. This six-verse version was submitted for the 2019 hymnal revision submission – the full
poem is now over 80 verses and published in book form.

1. The path to take me home to God 5. We need not fear upon this path;7
Is strong and sure and strait.5 We have a prophet's word:
And all along this upward path It is the door to all blessings
God's cov'nants stand as gates. Mankind has seen or heard.8

2. Baptism's Gate will be the first

Where I will bravely knock – 6. His laws; His cov'nants; His commands –
There I will take the Shepherd's name; New and Everlasting –
And in His steps I'll walk. Will light my path and guide my feet;
I'll walk unfaltering.
3. The Priesthood's Gate is where I'll learn6
Through Righteousness to lead –
With Gentleness and Charity;
Through virt'uous act and deed.

4. The Temple Gates will open wide –

Through cov'nants I'll begin
To live my life in holiness
And turn from every sin.

7...Elder David Bednar, October 2018 General Conference

8...“Now, to each member of the Church I say, keep on the
covenant path. Your commitment to follow the Savior by
making covenants with Him and then keeping those
covenants will open the door to every spiritual blessing and
5...“Straight as a ruler; strait as a rule.” John Bunyan privilege available to men, women, and children every-
6...Boys and girls learn the same priesthood leadership where.” (President Russell M. Nelson, to the press; January
principles: Doctrine & Covenants 121:33-46 16, 2018)
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 9

 Each Family Needs a Father's Love 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018; LM

Some will be offended by the thought of a father being needed for a happy home. I remind all that we
teach the Ideal even to those who don't live in ideal circumstances so that they will know and
understand God's Ideal and then aim for it in their life.

Each family needs a Father's love

To make eternal homes complete –
His wife his only true belov'd;
His children know his love, so sweet!

He shows that he is ever wise

By only doing what he knows
Will build and strengthen family ties –
So Heaven's love forever shows.

He bears God's priesthood righteously,

In thought, in word, in ev'ry deed.
He ministers with Charity –
Some he will clothe; some he will feed.

Dear Father, may I learn to be

A parent worthy of Thy praise?
That through my love, my fam-i-ly
Will worship Thee through all their days.

___________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 10

 For Such a Time as This 

Bruce T. Forbes, March 20, 2019 (Purim)

Queen Esther is one of my scripture heroes. If you know her story, then no explanation is needed. If
you don't, then set this down and go read the Book of Esther in the Old Testament. I wrote this because
we have no good song to honor her faith and courage.

1. Esther had to make the choice of standing for the right;

Only she could go unto the King and brave his might.
Fearful to accept the risk, her life hung by a strand.
Faith grew as she fasted, prayed, and chose to take a stand.

CHORUS: For such a time as this like Esther I will stand.

With courage as a mantle, while holding Heaven's hand,
The Spirit will guide onward; my fears I will dismiss.
Like Esther I will stand for such a time as this!

2. Everyday we make the choice of standing for what's right.

Friends will laugh and call us names while we follow God's light.
Fearful of what others think, we pause at their demands –
Faith grows as we fast and pray and choose to take a stand.

CHORUS:
For such a time as this like Esther we will stand.
With courage as a mantle, while holding Heaven's hand,
The Spirit will guide onward; our fears we will dismiss.
With Esther we still stand for such a time as this!
_________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 11

 God's Kingdom Is Restored 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004; SM

The 2005 rededication of the Apia Samoa temple after its terrible fire (all but the Angel Moroni statue
was destroyed or made unusable from the fire) and the bicentennial of Joseph Smith's birth, beginning
the Restoration of the Gospel, both happening in the same year, was too much for artists to keep silent
– too many parallels! This text was originally titled "God's Temple Is Restored", celebrating the rise of
the new building, but I changed 'Temple' for 'Kingdom,' and I like the new title and theme much better
– celebrating the Restoration of the Gospel, using the rebuilding of the temple as a simile. This text
placed as an Award of Merit (2nd Place) in the 2006 LDS Church Music Submission in the Hymn
Text Category. It is also one of my favorites. Every artist has something they would like to be
remembered for – this is one those for me.

God's kingdom is restored

In these, the Latter Days!
Lo! Zion, in her splendor shines;
'Tis beauty to our gaze.

His angels have returned,

Proclaiming every word
Of knowledge lost but now restored -
Their voices once more heard.

The walls of Zion rise

'Midst rubble from the past -
O Zion, refuge from the world,
Forever may she last!

As one our hearts have turned

To hear the angels' song,
And in support of Zion's cause
We ever will stand strong.

_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 12

 The Godhead Is a Quorum Strong 

by Bruce T. Forbes; 2002, 2018; CM

this is how I've explained the Godhead to my Primary children for at least 30 years

The Godhead is a quorum, strong,

Who plans and acts as one –
Each has a sacred part to play;
To carry out ‘til done.

God gave us life; He gave us breath,

He gave us all a way
Go learn to be just like He is –
His words I will obey!

Jesus opened the only gate

To gain all Father hath –
He saved us and redeemed us all;
Leads up the cov'nant path.

The Holy Spirit guides us still;

Christ’s words He will reveal.
He comforts and protects each one;
Through Him God's love we feel.

The Godhead is a quorum strong

Who leads and guides in love.
By following with Faith and Hope
We'll gain the courts Above.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 13

 He Will Speak Peace 

text and tune by Bruce T. Forbes, arranged by Jim Carter; 2002

This is one of my very favorite things I have written. The first two verses were written in August 2001 –
As a Primary music leader, I had an overwhelming need to write something to remind children where to
look for peace in this big, ugly, scary world. The third verse was written barely a month later, when I
was searching for a message of reassurance for the children in the wake of the September 11th terrorist
attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. I felt as if I'd written the first two verses almost
in anticipation of this event, with this verse waiting to be added. The fifth verse was written later, based
on Isaiah 54:10, when I realized that the children also need to know that He has covenanted Peace
with His children. The fourth verse came last and is based on Psalms 4:8. This is a tune that came to
me. Jim changed one note and wrote a beautiful arrangement. He is SO talented!

When there’s trouble all around me; Now I know I can safely rest,
When things happen and I’m afraid - I can sleep with His care so near.
I know to turn my heart to Jesus, With Jesus I will dwell securely;
He will make all my fears fade. With Him there is no fear -
He will speak Peace; He will speak Peace;
He will speak Peace. He will speak Peace.

When I don’t know where I should go, Though the mountains may be removed,
And I don’t know what I should do - And the hills all tremble and shake,
I know He’ll send the Holy Spirit - His love will never depart from us -
He will guide me, strong and true. Cov’nant of Peace He’ll not break.
He will speak Peace; He will speak Peace;
He will speak Peace; He will speak Peace.

Although evil won’t disappear,

He gives me strength to feel
His hand guiding, firm and strong,
Heart and mind He will heal -
He will speak Peace;
He will speak Peace.

_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 14

 I Covenant, Lord, to Follow Thee 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004; LM; Suggested tune 'Water Is Wide / O Waly Waly';
This is one of my favorites that I have written. A Sacrament hymn text centered on the Latter-day Saint
teaching that as we take the bread and water we are renewing our covenants with God. I originally
wrote a Common Metering version, but I loved the sound of this text to the grand old melody so much
that I rewrote it into Long Metering to be a companion to this melody. This is absolutely one of my
favorites I have written, and I acknowledge He Whose presence I felt while writing - and rewriting – it.

I covenant, Lord, to follow Thee -

Thy footsteps shall I ever see
Through darkened times, through happy days,
While walking in Thy holy ways.

I take the bread, remembering

Thou paid the price to heal Death's sting -
Thy flesh was torn in pain and strife
To save from death; to give me life.

And through the water I recall

Thou rescued me from mankind's fall -
Thy sweated blood for my sins fell
That I may in Thy presence dwell.

Today my covenants I renew -

Make now my heart and mind anew.
And in Thy presence may I stay
While worshiping this holy day?
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 15

 I Have Not Faith 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2006; CM or CMD

I had been going though one of those "windy, storm-tossed" periods of life recently, and I hadn't
written anything new for at least six months. I realized that the Lord has more of a need for rowers and
paddlers in His kingdom than He does for water-walkers. This probably wouldn't be considered much
of a hymn today, but I've been researching old hymns again and have hopefully written this in the
beautiful style of the Olney Hymnal (1779) time period. It is also inspired by wanting to do a lyrical
version of “Kenneserat”.

I have not faith to walk upon

the windy, storm-tossed sea -
So from my fragile boat's safe seat
His coming I will see.

Though seated, idle I am not -

the Lord can use me still!
Both hands are firmly on the oars
with all my strength and skill.

And with my hands upon the oars

I know I serve Him well,
For many weak and weary souls
in my poor boat do dwell!

The Lord's strong arm I'll ever be

in helping them survive
The storms and trials of this life
while for His shore we strive.

How rarely does He call us out

to walk upon a wave -
But pleads to keep us at the oars,
His weary sheep to save.

So in my craft I am content
to serve with all my might -
O Savior, ever guide my way
through mortal life's dark night!
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 16

 I Will Hear No Evil 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2018; SM

In Japanese myth and legend, monkeys are wise beings, and as a young missionary I was delighted by
the ancient carving in Nikko, Japan, of the Three Wise Monkeys:
Kikazaru (Hear no Evil),
Iwazaru (Speak No Evil), and
Mizaru (See No Evil).
Later, as a parent, I discovered there was a fourth Wise Monkey:
Shizaru (Do No Evil).

I will HEAR no evil!

My ears I'll turn away
From every evil joke and tale
That dulls the brightest day.

I will SPEAK no evil;

No words of Hate and Strife!
My lips I'll teach to only speak
Kind words through all my life.

I will SEE no Evil;

My eyes will linger not
On sights that turn both mind and heart
From righteous views and thoughts.

I will DO no evil;
No harmful action do.
I'll only act as Jesus taught;
To Him I will be true.
____________________________________

"Look not at what is contrary to propriety;

listen not to what is contrary to propriety;
speak not what is contrary to propriety;
make no movement which is contrary to propriety."
attributed to Confucius
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 17

 I'll Choose Today 

text Bruce T. Forbes & Daniel Lee Gibby; music 'Choose' Daniel Lee Gibby; 2005, 2018; CM
Inspired by Joshua 24:15; Daniel proposed the third verse when he started writing the music, and I
liked it and agreed it was a good addition.

I’ll choose today whom I will serve,

And it will be the Lord –
My shepherd He will ever be;
His grace a choice reward.

Forever I will follow Christ

With ev’ry step I take –
He is the Light, the Truth, the Way;
He is the choice I make.

And when the path is hard to see,

In Him my trust is sure.
He is the Shepherd and the Lamb –
In Him I can endure.

I’ll choose today to follow Him

Wherever He may lead –
Along His cove'nant path, so strait
I’ll walk in word and deed.

_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 18

 My Soul Delighteth 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2001, 2018; Metering: Iambic 9-6-8-6

The Book of Mormon prophet Nephi delighted in many things, as recorded in 2 Nephi chapters 4, 11,
25, and 31. This text is in tribute to him and centers mostly on the things that delighted him in 2 Nephi
11:5. This text was a finalist (top ten but not an award-winner) in the 2003 LDS Church's Annual
Music Submission but has been seriously worked over for submission for the hymnal revision project.

My soul deligtheth in His great strength -

The pow'r of his strong arm.
His strength alone will carry us;
Will keep us from all harm.

My soul delighteth in His justice;

The fairness in His heart.
He’ll judge us by our faith and works;
Just rewards to impart.

My soul delighteth in his mercy;

He knows my heart's intent -
Our weaknesses He will forgive
If knees to Him are bent.

My soul delighteth in His good grace;

Unshaking love for me.
For after all that we can do,
His outstretched arms we'll see.

My soul delighteth in His cov’nants

That mark the path He laid.
I'll enter every cov'nant's gate
Following unafraid.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 19

 Never, Never Give Up 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018; SM

If Winston Churchill had written a Primary song, I think this would have been it. I picture it as a half-
wiggle song with the children shaking a finger or a fist or stomping their feet to the fully-capitalized
'NEV-' and 'UP'. This is written by someone who has allowed his life to be molded by the laughter and
the criticism turned on him, and I hope that a song like this might keep children from following that
same path.

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!
When standing for what's right and true,
NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!
No matter how they laugh at you –
NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!
The Holy Spirit strengthens you!
NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!

NNE-ver, NE-ver give UP!
Live ev'ry cov'nant strong and true!
NE-ver, NE-ver give UP!
___________

Help the children think of other lines that can be used, such as –

– The Lord has a great work for you!

– There's so much good that you can do!
– Do everything so well and true
– The Savior will stand strong with you
– The Savior ever stands with you
______________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 20

 Prayer Is When 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004, 2018; LM

Our worship service was centered on the topic of prayer, and this was what I was inspired to write.

In Prayer is when I give my thanks

To God above in grateful praise –
For all good things that come my way
Come from His hands, His love, His grace.

In Prayer is when I kneel and ask

Father above for strength to last –
To help His children find their way,
And guide us till all danger's passed.

In Prayer is when I listen well

To God above, who teaches me.
Once more I thank Him for His care,
Then follow as He's guiding me.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 21

 The Priesthood Blesses Families 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018; CMD

Some say that lyrics that talk about Ideal homes and families don't apply to and offend children from
less than Ideal situations. As a Primary music leader, I've told these people that our children's songs
teach the Ideal so that the children from all homes and situations will grow up knowing and striving for
that Ideal.

The priesthood blesses families in very many ways –

It brings an extra spirit to what fam'lies do and say.
It gives them extra guidance as they journey on through life;
An extra source of protection from all the hate and strife.

The priesthood teaches families to guide as Jesus guides.

Father presides in righteousness, Mother firm by his side –
Leading their children with a love to last Eternity,
They work to be examples of His love and charity.

The priesthood gathers families, and through its Sealing power

It binds them for eternity; not days or years or hours.
We'll search each generation's names, binding each fam'ly fast,
Until to Adam and to Eve we all are bound at last.

_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 22

 See the Lamb of Our Atonement 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004; LM

I used this phrase "The Lamb of Our Atonement" in another text, but it so forcefully stuck in my mind
that I knew I had to write something centered on it. Compare this to Leviticus chapter 16, where
Jehovah gives the instructions for the sacrifice on the sacred Day of Atonement.

See the Lamb of our Atonement

Whose sweated blood falls by the tree
From whose fruit the priests will harvest
Oil to anoint, to make us free.

See the Lamb, and see the scapegoat,

Then hear the people choosing one –
One to ever bear their sorrows,
And one they will forever shun.

See the Lamb upon the cross, now,

As He is raised for all to see –
See His sacrifice accepted,
Defeating Death for you and me.

See the Lamb rise three days later –

Rise with the waiving of the grain!
See the tombs and graves made empty
As He brings them to life again!

See the Lamb of our Atonement

As He opens His arms to greet
All who gladly come unto Him,
And gather to His Mercy Seat.
_____________________________________

Someone suggested using Verse 5 as a chorus. I was resistant at first, but in reading it through, I liked
the idea. I thought it fit well, and none of the message was lost.
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 23

 Seed called Faith 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2002; CM;

Tune: Traditional African American Spiritual ('In Christ there Is No East or West')
There is no song in the Primary Songbook on how to grow your faith as taught in Alma chapter 32!!!
so I wrote this.

I have a little seed called Faith;

Within my heart it dwells -
And if it’s nurtured carefully,
God’s love will make it swell.

God’s words will ever warm the seed,

Helping its shell to break.
My actions will encourage it;
Hope helping it to wake.

I’ll not forget to nourish this -

My growing Faith in God.
I’ll search the scriptures prayerfully;
I’ll grip the gospel rod.

Faith’s fruits will shine both day and night

Nurturing you and me,
While day by day Faith’s small seed grows
Into a glorious tree.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 24

 That We Might Be At-One 

Bruce T. Forbes, 2018; CMD

written to explain the word “Atonement,” which means 'the condition of being at-one.' The imagery of
the Day of Atonement lends itself beautifully to explain Christ's Atonement.

When Is-ra-el gathered as one

on their most holy day,
They brought two temple-worthy beasts
to stand before the way –
Two Firstborn with no blemishes;
of injuries they had none;
Presented to the Lord Above,
that we might be At-One.

On one they laid their broken hearts,

their griefs, their sinful ways;
To rid themselves of such a load,
they banished it away.
The other's blood was shed to cleanse
hearts that, with sin, were done –
'Twas sprinkled on the Mercy Seat,
that we might be At-One.

Our Father sent His Firstborn lamb –

no blemishes, 'tis true!
Who took our sorrows, griefs, and sins;
refreshed our souls anew.
His blood was spilt to cleanse us all;
Life over Death He won.
So I'll follow God's only Lamb,
that we might be At-One.

_____________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 25

 They Had Faith in Every Footstep 

Bruce T. Forbes; 1997; Suggested Tune: 'Sheffield' (same tune as "In Our Lovely Deseret")
There was a hymn written to celebrate this theme for the 150th anniversary of the settling of the Salt
Lake valley, but no children’s song!

'Cross the river from Nauvoo,

Freezing winds turned noses blue
As they struggled through the snows of Iowa –
Rain and snow was blinding cold;
Yet their hearts were oh so bold –
In a prophet’s footsteps all the children walked.

Chorus: They had Faith in ev’ry footstep;

Faith the Lord was leading them -
Hand-in-hand they trusted God
As across the plains they trod -
Faith the Lord had a great work for them to do.

Rocky paths cut up their feet,

Wagons slid on hills so steep
While the summer sun turned faces pink and red.
Pants with patches on the knees;
Dresses torn but mended neat -
Far across the land the children walked and walked.

Day by day they did their parts -

Some with wagons; some with carts,
Either way they helped as only children could -
They would lead the oxen strong,
Or help pull the carts along.
Either way the children walked and walked and walked.

They could only dream of when,

As parents and children, then,
They would gather under their own vine and tree. [1]
Pulling wagons up a slope
They would sing their songs of hope
While the children walked and walked and walked and walked.
_____________________________________

[1] Micah 1:1-5

 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 26

 This Man of Men 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2005, 2018; CM

In John Milton's PARADISE REGAINED I ran across the term "This Man of Men" ... while at at the
same time preparing a lesson for church that had a quote about Jesus being the example of perfect
Manhood. All we men should think hard about who the best man is who ever lived and pattern
ourselves after him.

This Man of Men, whom angels praise;

Who said, 'I am the way' –
In praise to Him my voice I raise,
And sing by night and day.

As Son of Man He came to dwell;

And lived a perfect life --
Held out His hands to those who fell,
Offering them new life.

As God's Only Begotten Son,

He did His Father's will:
For us He battled Death and won –
Holds Heaven open still!

Thou Man of Men – be Thou my guide

Forever, Lord, I pray;
That in Thy presence I may hide
From ev'ry worldly way.
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 27

 Though Dreams Are Ravaged 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2005, 2018; Hallelujah Common Meter: 8-8-6-8-8-6; suggested tune: 'Manna'
written in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to remind us where to turn in all great disasters in our life. I
was also struggling through suicidal depression. Verse 2 was written in 2018 during the fire that
destroyed much of Paradise, California, including both Latter-day Saint chapels. Verse 3 came when I
figured earthquakes and lightening needed their part in all of this. I suppose volcanoes and tsunamis
need to be considered . . .

Though dreams are ravaged by the gale, Though light'ning fires up the sky
And hopes are dashed, and all hearts fail – Thy wings will keep me warm and dry!
Still, I will follow Thee. And I will follow Thee.
Though Hell's own fury strikes the sea,
I know Thy Rock will shelter me! Though shame and scorn are poured my way,
And I will follow Thee. And loved ones all my trust betray –
Still, I will follow Thee.
Though fires rage across the land; Though shoulders slump - tired, bruised, and beat,
Destroying all I've hoped and planned – Still I will seek Thy mercy seat!
Still, I will follow Thee. And I will follow Thee.
Though Hearth and Home is burned away
For Thy firm hand I'll ever pray, Though mortal helpers ne'er appear,
And I will follow Thee. I know I'll feel Thee ever near –
Still, I will follow Thee.
Though earthquakes shake all to the ground Thine open arms, so strong but fair,
Till all is rubble, all around – Will lead me from Fear and Despair!
Still, I will follow Thee. And I will follow Thee.

_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 28

 We Thank Thee for this Sabbath Day 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2004, 2018; CM or CMD

We don't thank the Lord enough for the Sabbath and for the time it gives us to do the things He wants
us to do. This text was written to do just that.

We thank Thee for this Sabbath Day,

A day for Heaven's Calm --
A day to turn our hearts Thy way;
And praise through prayer and psalm.

A day to set the world aside

and dwell on holy things;
That in our hearts may then abide
The Peace the Gospel brings.

A day to gather and rejoice

With all whom we hold dear --
A day to share Thy love, Thy voice,
With all those who will hear.

A day to take another's hand

And share their weary load,
To lift their hearts, that they may stand
On Thy strait, narrow road.

A day to thank Thee for Thy Son;

Whose praise we'll shout anew --
We'll take His emblems, one by one,
All cov'nants we'll renew.

On this and ev'ry Sabbath Day

We will commemorate
The gentle beauty of Thy ways,
Thy love to celebrate.

_______________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 29

 Whatever It May Be 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2005; SM

The person conducting Sacrament Meeting stood up, gave us the hymn number for the Sacrament
song, but didn't have the title written down, so he said “Well, whatever it may be.” I had these verses
written before the end of the meeting.

Whatever it may be
That Thou requires of me –
O Lord, please hear my humble plea:
Help me return to Thee!

Whatever I may do
To be Thy child anew –
I will for all Thy Mercy sue,
And I will follow true!

To Thee, O Lord, I pray

For Thee to guide by day –
And through the night show me the way
To Thee, O Lord, I pray!
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 30

 When Heaven’s Gates Were Opened Wide 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2001, 2019; Metering: LM; Suggested Tune: 'Water Is Wide / O Waly Waly'
This also is one my very favorite of all the things I have written. I was actually praying for an
inspiration to write upon an Easter theme, and this whole picture came to mind.

When Heaven’s gates were opened wide

And Jesus stepped in through the way,
Did Heaven’s light shine brighter then;
Far brighter even than noonday?

How did the Father show His love

For what His Son for us had done?
Were angels’ eyes allowed to gaze
As Father greeted His own Son?

Did Father touch the pierc-ed hands?

Did He reach for the wounded side?
Did Father’s tears fall on scarred feet?
Did they embrace, both teary-eyed?

Did Father speak to Heaven's hosts;

Assembled all on bended knees:
"Behold now My Beloved Son,
In whom I am, I am well pleased"?
_____________________________________
 Forbes / Submitted Texts and Lyrics / 31

 Worthy Is the Lamb! 

Bruce T. Forbes; 2005; SM; suggested tune: 'Rhiw'

I have a friend who is a Christian of Jewish heritage, and he asked for a hymn text that combines the
tradition and tokens of the Passover with its fulfillment in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. It took
me a year, but I did it!

Worthy is the Lamb!

Who marks each heart and mind,
That Death and Sorrow might pass o'er;
Delivering all mankind.

Worthy is the Lamb!

His flesh He freely gave -
Death's price He paid in full to save
Us from the mortal grave.

Worthy is the Lamb!

His blood He freely spilt -
Redeeming us from Sin's dark grasp;
From sorrows and from guilt.

Worthy is the Lamb!

Who opened Heaven's gate
And bids us still to come to Him
On His path, sure and strait.

Worthy of the Lamb -

'Tis all I want to be!
I will be ready when He calls
Me home, His face to see.
_____________________________________

Note: Final verse may be used as a chorus.