The Lost Sheep found

Verse 1

When some kind shepherd from his fold, Has lost a straying sheep, Through vales, o'er hills, he anxious roves, And climbs the mountain's steep.

Verse 2

But O the joy! the transport sweet! When lie the wanderer finds; Up in his arms he takes his charge, And to his shoulder binds.

Verse 3

Homeward he hastes to tell his joys, And make his bliss complete: The neighbours hear the news, and all The joyful shepherd greet.

Verse 4

Yet how much greater is the joy When but one sinner turns; When the poor wretch with broken heart, His sins and errors mourns!

Verse 5

Pleas'd with the news, the saints below, In songs their tongues employ; Beyond the skies the tidings go, And heaven is fill'd with joy.

Verse 6

Well-pleas'd the Father sees and hears The conscious sinner weep; Jesus receives him in his arms, And owns him for his sheep.

Verse 7

Nor angels can their joys contain, But kindle with new fire: "A wandering sheep's return'd," they sing, And strike the sounding lyre.