1987


Morning Devotion

Composed by Alva Henderson
Text by Janet Lewis
"Morning Devotion" sets a poem of Janet Lewis. For visitors interested in obtaining the score to this song, please contact alvahenderson@earthlink.net.

Text

Morning Devotion
by Janet Lewis

In the fear of death I ask me
What is my heart’s desire?
Here as I sweep the floor
And shade the sunny window
With what is it I task me?
Of heaven what implore?

Life to maintain and to increase
And to surround with peace
Like an orchard in sun
Where all’s activity,
Leaf, earth and weighted tree,
Yet all resolved in one, one
Airy tranquility.

And to maintain my soul
Content in this employ,
To bind despair and joy
Into a stable whole.
So day by day both house and spirit tending,
Feel all’s complete at day’s as at life’s ending.

Audio

Morning Devotion
Susan Gundunas (soprano) & Daniel Lockert (piano)4:28

Alva Henderson

Composer

Janet Lewis

Poet(s)/Writer(s)