GOD BLESS THE SAILORS

God bless the sailors brave to-night

Upon the surging sea,

Who're fighting hard against the storm,

Protecting you and me.

 

The lightning flash, the thunder peals,

The surging billows roll;

'Tis then the sailor's work begins—

The boat they must control.

 

Oh, raging sea, why not be still?

Oh, lightning, thunder, cease!

Oh, mighty storm, why not be calm?

Oh, why not hold thy peace?

 

Lord, calm again this raging sea,

If it's Thy holy will;

Pray let me hear Thy loving voice

Say to the wind, "Be still!"

 

James Ephraim McGirt (1874-1930)