[Intro – soft piano + light acoustic guitar + bowed double bass swell] (2 bars instrumental, gentle and reflective) [Verse 1 – solo baritone] In the quiet of the morning light Before the world begins to move You open up the Holy Word And let His voice speak truth With hands that serve and heart that yields You walk the narrow way A shepherd listening for His call And leading us each day [Pre-Chorus – light harmony enters] Not for glory, not for gain But for the name above all names [Chorus – full male quartet, no soloist] Blessed is the shepherd who follows the Lamb Walking in mercy, held in His hand Faithful and steady, guiding the way Pointing us always to Jesus who saves Lift up a song for the life that you’ve lived Grace you have carried, grace you still give On this day we honor the calling you knew A servant of Christ, steadfast and true [Verse 2 – baritone lead, soft harmony under] Through every trial, through every tear You stood on sacred ground With humble strength and quiet faith You never backed down You bore our burdens in your prayers You spoke His living Word And showed us how to trust in Him In all things we have heard [Pre-Chorus – building harmony] Not by power, not by might But by His Spirit shining bright [Chorus – full quartet, stronger harmony] Blessed is the shepherd who follows the Lamb Walking in mercy, held in His hand Faithful and steady, guiding the way Pointing us always to Jesus who saves Lift up a song for the life that you’ve lived Grace you have carried, grace you still give On this day we honor the calling you knew A servant of Christ, steadfast and true [Bridge – baritone lead, intimate, minimal instruments] May the Lord bless you and keep you in peace May His light upon you never cease Every step ordered, every word true A life poured out in all that you do [Final Chorus – full quartet, richest harmony, warm and triumphant] Blessed is the shepherd who follows the Lamb Walking in mercy, held in His hand Faithful and steady, guiding the way Pointing us always to Jesus who saves We lift up our voices, together we stand Grateful for you in His perfect plan On this day we honor the calling you knew A servant of Christ, steadfast and true [Outro – soft piano + guitar, fading] Happy birthday, faithful one Your race in Him is never done
