John Brownlie (trans.) · 115 of 130

I: O Jesus Christ, when Thou didst dwell

O Jesus Christ, when Thou didst dwell On earth with mortals long ago, The heavy-laden knew Thee well, And Thou didst heed their cry of woe.

And Thou didst hear the humble prayer That told the sorrow of the soul; And to the spirit crushed by care Thou gav'st the word that made it whole.

The darkened mind with heavenly light Thou, from Thy presence, didst illume; And day returning after night, Dispelled their dismal clouds of gloom.

And eyes with sorrow filled were made To shine with hope like early morn; Enduring joys for those that fade, Thou gav'st their sadness to adorn.

And Thou, O Christ, art still the same, Time hath not chilled Thy loving heart; Come then, as Christ in mercy came, And now, as then, Thyself impart.

We need Thee still; O gracious Lord, In all our sin, and grief, and pain, Come then, and let Thy living word Enrich our needy lives again.