Mercy and Truth

Verse 1

When first the GOD of boundless grace Disclos'd his kind design, To rescue our apostate race From mis'ry, shame, and sin;

Verse 2

Quick, through the realms of light and bliss, The joyful tidings ran; Each heart exulted at the news, That GOD would dwell with man.

Verse 3

Yet 'midst their joys they paus'd awhile And asked with strange surprise, "But how can injur'd justice smile; "Or look with pitying eyes?

Verse 4

"Will the Almighty deign again "To visit yonder world; "And hither bring rebellious men, "Whence rebels once were hurl'd?

Verse 5

"Their tears, and groans, and deep distress "Aloud for mercy call; "But ah! must truth and righteousness "To mercy victims fall?"

Verse 6

So spake the friends of GOD and man, Delighted, yet surpris'd; Eager to know the wond'rous plan, That wisdom had devis'd.

Verse 7

The Son of GOD attentive heard, And quickly thus reply'd, "In me let mercy be reve'd, "And justice satisfy'd.

Verse 8

"Behold! my vital blood I pour, "A sacrifice to GOD; "Let angry justice now no more "Demand the sinner's blood."

Verse 9

He spake, and heaven's high arches rung, With shouts of loud applause; "He dy'd," the friendly angels sung, Nor cease their rapturous joys.