All my life long I had panted

All my life long I had panted
  For a draught from some cool spring,
That I hoped would quench the burning
  Of the thirst I felt within.

Feeding on the husks around me,
  Till my strength was almost gone,
Longed my soul for something better,
  Only still to hunger on.

Poor I was, and sought for riches,
  Something that would satisfy,
But the dust I gathered round me
  Only mocked my soul’s sad cry.

Well of water, ever springing,
  Bread of life, so rich and free,
Untold wealth that never faileth,
  My Redeemer is to me.