We plow the fields and scatter

544 St. Anselm. 7. 6. 7. 6. D.

1 We plow the fields and scatter
   The good seed on the land,
   But it is fed and watered
   By God's almighty hand.
   He sends the snow in winter,
   The warmth to swell the grain,
   The breezes and the sunshine,
   And soft, refreshing rain.

2 He only is the Maker
   Of all things near and far;
   He paints the wayside flower,
   He lights the evening star.
   The winds and waves obey Him,
   By Him the birds are fed;
   Much more, to us His children,
   He gives our daily bread.

3 We thank Thee then, O Father,
   For all things bright and good:
   The seed-time and the harvest,
   Our life, our health our food.
   No gifts have we to offer
   For all Thy love imparts,
   But that which Thou desirest,
   Our humble, thankful hearts.
                         Matthias Claudius
                         Tr. by Jane M. Campbell
                         The Methodist Hymnal 1939 edition

<idle musing>
Some add a refrain:

All good gifts around us
Are sent from heaven above;
Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord
For all His love.

</idle musing>