HYMN 50. (C. M.) The Song of Zacharias, and the Message of John
the Baptist; or, Light and Salvation by Jesus Christ, Luke i. 68, &c. John i. 29, 32.
I
Now be the God of Israel bless'd
Who makes his truth appear,
His mighty hand fulfils his word,
And all the oaths he sware.
II
Now he bedews old David's root
With blessings from the skies;
He makes the branch of promise grow,
The promis'd Horn arise.
III
John was the prophet of the Lord
To go before his face,
The herald which our Saviour God
Sent to prepare his ways.
IV
He makes the great salvation known,
He speaks of pardon'd sins;
While grace divine and heavenly love
In its own glory shines.
V
‘Behold the Lamb of God, (he cries)
‘That takes our guilt away:
‘I saw the Spirit o'er his head
On his baptising day.
VI
‘Be ev'ry vale exalted high,
‘Sink every mountain low,
‘The proud must stoop, and humble souls
‘Shall his salvation know.
VII
‘The heathen realms with Israel's land
‘Shall join in sweet accord;
‘And all that's born of man shall see
‘The glory of the Lord.
VIII
‘Behold the morning star arise,
‘Ye that in darkness sit:
‘He marks the path that leads to peace,
‘And guides our doubtful feet.’
