1) Shepherd of eager youth, Guiding in love and truth
Through devious ways - Christ, our triumphant King,
We come Thy name to sing; Hither Thy children bring
Tributes of praise.
2) Thou art our Holy Lord, The all-subduing Word,
Healer of strife; Thou didst Thyself abase
That from sin's deep disgrace Thou mightest save our race
And give us life.
3) Ever be near our side, Our shepherd and our guide,
Our staff and song; Jesus, Thou Christ of God,
By Thy enduring Word Lead us where Thou has trod,
Make our faith strong.
4) So now, and till we die, sound we Thy praises high
And joyful sing; infants and the glad throng
Who to Thy church belong, unite to swell the song
To Christ, our King.
This hymn was written by Clement of Alexandria (ca. 170 - ca. 220). It is the oldest hymn we have in which we know who the author is. Clement of Alexandria wrote this hymn to instruct new believers. This idea would be precious to Clement of Alexandria, as he was a philosopher and ran a school to teach philosophies, both Christian and other kinds. Notice he covers the three offices of Christ (prophet [stanza three], priest [stanza 2], and king [ stanza 1]). He also places high emphasis on God's Word, which instructs believers what exactly they are to believe concerning God and their duties that God requires of His flock. This is an excellent hymn to help children learn about the God who love them. All of this points to Clement of Alexandria's desire to educate. Besides, look at this guy! Who wouldn't want to learn from him?
Clement of Alexandria
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