The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. Containing, besides his Sermons, and Essays on miscellaneous subjects, several additional pieces, Selected from his Manuscripts by the Rev. Dr. Jennings, and the Rev. Dr. Doddridge, in 1753: to which are prefixed, memoirs of the life of the author, compiled by the Rev. George Burder. In six volumes |
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Love to Christ, present or absent.
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 | The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. |  |
Love to Christ, present or absent.
I
Of all the joys we mortals know,Jesus, thy love exceeds the rest;
Love, the best blessing here below,
And nearest image of the blest.
II
Sweet are my thoughts, and soft my cares,When the celestial flame I feel;
In all my hopes, and all my fears,
There's something kind and pleasing still.
III
While I am held in his embraceThere's not a thought attempts to rove;
Each smile he wears upon his face
Fixes, and charms, and fires my love.
IV
He speaks, and straight immortal joysRun through my ears, and reach my heart;
My soul all melts at that dear voice,
And pleasure shoots thro' ev'ry part.
V
If he withdraw a moment's space,He leaves a sacred pledge behind;
Here in this breast his image stays,
The grief and comfort of my mind.
VI
While of his absence I complain,And long, and weep as lovers do,
There's a strange pleasure in the pain,
And tears have their own sweetness too.
VII
When round his courts by day I rove,Or ask the watchman of the night
For some kind tidings of my love,
His very name creates delight.
VIII
Jesus, my God; yet rather come;Mine eyes would dwell upon thy face;
'Tis best to see my Lord at home,
And feel the presence of his grace.
| The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | |