Attend, and mark the solemn fast

Verse 1

Attend, and mark the solemn fast which to the Lord is dear; disdain the false unhallow'd mask which vain dissemblers wear.

Verse 2

Do I delight in sorrow’s dress? saith he who reigns above; the hanging head and rueful look, will they attract my love?

Verse 3

Let such as feel oppression’s load thy tender pity share: and let the helpless, homeless poor, be thy peculiar care.

Verse 4

Go, bid the hungry orphan be with thy abundance blest; invite the wand’rer to thy gate, and spread the couch of rest.

Verse 5

Let him who pines with piercing cold by thee be warm'd and clad; be thine the blissful task to make the downcast mourner glad.

Verse 6

Then, bright as morning, shall come forth, in peace and joy, thy days; and glory from the Lord above shall shine on all thy ways.