A Solemn Vigil

Verse 1

How many pass the guilty night In revelings and frantic mirth! The creature is their sole delight, Their happiness the things of earth; For us suffice the season past: We choose the better part at last.

Verse 2

We will not close our wakeful eyes, We will not let our eyelids sleep, But humbly lift them to the skies, And all a solemn vigil keep; So many nights on sin bestowed, Can we not watch one hour for God!

Verse 3

We can, O Jesus, for thy sake, Devote our every hour to thee; Speak but the word, our souls shall wake, And sing with cheerful melody: Thy praise shall our glad tongues employ And every heart shall dance for joy.

Verse 4

Blest object of our faith and love, We listen for thy welcome voice; Our persons and our works approve, And bid us in thy strength rejoice; Now let us hear the mighty cry, And shout to find the Bridegroom nigh.

Verse 5

Shout in the midst of us, O King Of saints, and let our joys abound; Let us rejoice, give thanks, and sing, And triumph in redemption found: We ask in faith for every soul; O let our glorious joy be full!

Verse 6

O may we all triumphant rise; With joy upon our heads return; And far above these nether skies, By thee on eagles’ wings upborne, Through all yon radiant circles move, And gain the highest heaven of love.