My Angel-Dress

HEAVENLY Father, I would wearAngel-garments, white and fair:Angel-vesture undefiledWilt Thou give unto thy child?

Not a robe of many hues,Such as earthly fathers choose;—Discord weaves the gaudy vest:Not in such let me be drest.

Take the raiment soiled awayThat I wear with shame to-day:Give my angel-robe to me,White with heavenly purity.

Take away my cloak of pride,And the worthless rags 't would hideClothe me in my angel-dress,Beautiful with holiness.

Perfume every fold with love,Hinting heaven where'er I move;As an Indian vessel's sailsWhisper of her costly bales.

Let me wear my white robes here,Even on earth, my Father dear,Holding fast Thy hand, and soThrough the world unspotted go.

Let me now my white robes wear:Then I need no more prepare,All apparelled for my homeWhensoe'er Thou callest, "Come!"

Thus apparelled, I shall beAs a signal set for Thee,That the wretched and the weakMay the same fair garments seek.

"Buy of Me," I hear Thee say:I have naught wherewith to pay,But I give myself to Thee;Clothed, adopted I shall be.