Three Hermits On An Island Lyrics

Three Hermits on an Island
There once were three hermits
Maybe truth, maybe legend
Miles out from the mainland
They lived on an island.

[ Lyrics from: http://www.lyricenter.com/e96504-bread_of_life_orphanage~three_hermits_on_an_island_lyrics.html ]
Their days were spent praying
While working in the garden
Thanking God for his love
And merciful pardon.

Whatever they were missing
They really didn't care
But for things of true value
They had their share.

Gold and silver they had none
Treasure in heaven they laid
Hands clean and hearts pure
They met each dawn and prayed

“You are God
We are sinful men.
Have mercy on us
Forgive all our sin.”


Off on the mainland
The word got around
That these old recluses
Were trying not to be found.

The leaders discussed what to do
Came up with a plan
Sent a bishop to the hermits
To help them understand

First thing that he did
Was teach them how to pray,
Formality of ritual
When to sit, stand, and what to say.

After a short time
The catechism was complete
The Status Quo could rest again
All dissent had met defeat.

Religion is God
Catholic and Protestant the same
Every knee to us shall bow
Or receive Eternal flame.

With a job well done
The bishop sailed home again
When he saw across the water
Toward him three hermits ran.

“How can you do that?”
The bishop asked in fright.
“Please forgive us”, said the hermits
We just want to get it right.

Do we sprinkle or dunk?
Who is the beast of Revelation?
Will God forgive me if I lead
A non-elect to Salvation?

The bishop shook his head
And sent the hermits away, said
“Whatever you're doing, just keep doing”

You are God
We are sinful men
Have mercy on us
Forgive all our sin.

Now for the morale of the story
There is more than just one
First you must take a step
And on the water run.

For all of us who seek a life
Of tranquility divine
Must turn their backs on worldly things
Leave the Status Quo behind

So if you've got an island
Or just a private spot to pray
If you have a few close friends
Hearts united the same way.

Stand fast with true simplicity
Cling to love, faith, and hope.
Watch out for men who wear long robes
And for approaching boats.

Religion has never saved one soul
Though millions it has slain

Conformity is what it requires
Hands covered with blood stains

Each new generation
Must learn these morals anew
God is God and
We are just sinful men
His mercy is always near
To forgive us of our sin.