358
C. M.
There is joy over one sinner, etc.
Luke 15:7.
O how divine, how sweet the joy,
When but one sinner turns,
And, with a humble, broken heart,
His sins and errors mourns!
2 Pleased with the news, the saints below,
In songs their tongues employ;
Beyond the skies the tidings go,
And heaven is filled with joy.
3 Well pleased the Father sees, and hears
The conscious sinner’s moan;
Jesus receives him in his arms,
And claims him for his own.
4 Nor angels can their joy contain,
But kindle with new fire;
“The sinner lost is found,” they sing,
And strike the sounding lyre.
Needham.