What blest examples do I find
         Writ in the Word of Truth
      Of children that began to mind
         Religion in their youth!

      Jesus, who reigns above the sky,
         And keeps the world in awe,
      Was once a child as young as I,
         And kept His Father's law.

      At twelve years old he talked with men,
         The Scribes all wondering stand;
      Yet He obeyed his Mother then,
         And came at her command.

      Children a sweet hosanna sung,
         And blest their Savior's name;
      They gave Him honor with their tongue,
         While scribes and priests blaspheme.

      Samuel the child was weaned and brought
         To wait upon the Lord:
      Young Timothy betimes was taught
         To know his holy Word.

      Then why should I so long delay
         What others learnt so soon?
      I would not pass another day
         Without this work begun.