The Books Opened

Verse 1

Methinks the last great day is come, Methinks I hear the trumpet sound, That shakes the earth, rends ev'ry tomb, And wakes the pris'ners under ground.

Verse 2

The mighty deep gives up her trust, Aw'd by the Judge's high command; Both small and great now quit their dust, And round the dread tribunal stand.

Verse 3

Behold the awful books display'd, Big with th'important fates of men! Each word and deed now public made, Written by heaven's unerring pen.

Verse 4

To ev'ry soul the books assign The joyous or the dread reward; Sinners in vain lament and pine: No pleas the Judge will here regard.

Verse 5

Lord, when these awful leaves unfold, May life's fair book my soul approve; There may I read my name enroll'd, And triumph in redeeming love.