Psalm LXXII. Third Part. Long Met. Divine influence compared to Rain

As showers on meadows newly mown. Our God shall send his spirit down; Eternal source of grace divine, What soul refreshing drops are thine!

Lands which beneath a burning sky Have long been desolate and dry, Th' effusions of his love shall share, And sudden life and verdure wear.

The dews and rains in all their store, Watering the pastures o'er and o'er, Are not so copious, as that grace, Which sanctifies and saves our race.

As in soft silence, vernal showers Descend and cheer the fainting flowers So in the secrecy of love, Falls the blest influence from above.

That heavenly influence let me find, In holy silence of the mind; Whilst every grace maintains its bloom, Diffusing wide its rich perfume.

Nor let these blessings be confin'd To me, but pour'd on all mankind; Till all the wastes in verdure rise, And a new Eden bless our eyes.