Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

This Is My Father's World

Maltbie Davenport Babcock

A highly admired Presbyterian minister, athlete, and writer in Baltimore and New York (1858–1901). Known for his infectious joy, kindness, and love for God's creation, he frequently took long hikes along the Niagara Escarpment in upstate New York. Before leaving, he would tell his wife, 'I'm going out to see my Father's world.' After his sudden and tragic death at age 42, his wife published his poems, including the beloved 'This Is My Father's World', which continues to inspire generations with its celebration of God's presence in nature.

Source: Classic public-domain hymn

This is my Father's world,

And to my listening ears

All nature sings, and round me rings

The music of the spheres.

This is my Father's world:

I rest me in the thought

Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas,

His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world:

The birds their carols raise,

The morning light, the lily white,

Declare their Maker's praise.

This is my Father's world:

He shines in all that's fair;

In the rustling grass I hear Him pass,

He speaks to me everywhere.

This is my Father's world:

O let me ne'er forget

That though the wrong seems oft so strong,

God is the Ruler yet.

This is my Father's world:

The battle is not done;

Jesus who died shall be satisfied,

And earth and heaven be one.

This Is My Father's World

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