Frances

Twenty-one years at the sanctuary door

Lighted Pathways Church, steady and sure

I've watched the faces as they come and go

Tending the spirit and helping it grow

I've got a quick little joke when the times get tough

A patient heart when the world is rough

But lately the mirror is telling the truth

I'm a long, long way from the days of my youth

But the joy of the Lord is my strength today

When these aging bones start to feel the fray

I might be tired, and my hair might be gray

But I'm keeping the light on the pathway

Yeah, the joy of the Lord is my strength today

I've stood at the pulpit and given my best

Though this faithful servant could use a good rest

I’ve smiled through the seasons of sorrow and cheer

Wondering where went that twenty-first year

My steps are slowing, I cannot deny

As the fast-moving river of time passes by

Frances, you're weary, but don't you sit down

There is still work in this changing old town

'Cause the joy of the Lord is my strength today

When these aging bones start to feel the fray

I might be tired, and my hair might be gray

But I'm keeping the light on the pathway

Yeah, the joy of the Lord is my strength today

Nehemiah eight and verse number ten

I whisper it over and over again

It's not my own muscle that carries me through

It's a heavenly promise, forever true

When the shadows get long and the evening is cold

I'll lean on the Word as I'm realizing I'm old

Oh, the joy of the Lord is my strength today

When these aging bones start to feel the fray

I might be tired, and my hair might be gray

But I'm keeping the light on the pathway

Yeah, the joy of the Lord is my strength today

I'm walking in faith on the pathway!