O how I love Your dwelling-place
And for its courts I long
My soul, my heart, my flesh rejoice
And burst forth into song.

O Lord of hosts what glory dwells
Among Your altars fair
My King, my God, how blest are those
Who make their dwelling there.

O that I might be like the birds
Whose house is nestled near
And like them lift a song of praise
To You throughout the year.

What joy as pilgrims make their way
Toward Zion’s holy hill
The desert pathways become springs
Their souls Your strength doth fill.

From strength to strength till they appear
Before God’s holy mount
Their heart a highway to His courts
To the life-giving fount.

O Lord of hosts, now hear my prayer
O God of Jacob, heed
Bestow Your favor on the king
Look on our face, we plead.

A single day spent in Your courts
Thousands elsewhere exceeds
I’d rather stand inside Your door
Than dwell ‘mongst evil deeds.

From Adonai, our sun, our shield
Glory and grace unfold
From those who walk in righteousness
No good will He withhold.

O Lord of hosts, You are so good
Truly the man is blest
Who puts his trust in You alone
And finds in You his rest.

© 2014 J Dan Small