On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry

On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry
announces that the Lord is nigh;
come then and harken, for he brings
glad tidings from the King of kings!

Then cleansed be ev'ry Christian breast,
and furnished for so great a guest!
Yea, let us each our hearts prepare
for Christ to come and enter there.

For thou art our salvation, Lord,
our refuge and our great reward;
once more upon thy people shine
and fill the world with love divine.

To heal the sick, stretch forth thy hand,
and bid the fallen sinner stand;
shine forth, and let thy light restore
earth's own true loveliness once more.

All praise, eternal Son, to thee,
whose advent sets thy people free,
whom with the Father we adore,
and Holy Spirit evermore.