1
On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry
Announces that the Lord is nigh;
Awake and hearken, for he brings
Glad tidings of the King of kings.
2
Then cleansed be every heart from sin;
Make straight the way for God within;
Prepare we in our hearts a home,
Where such a mighty guest may come.
3
For Thou art our salvation, Lord,
Our refuge and our great reward;
Without Thy grace we waste away
Like flowers that wither and decay.
4
To heal the sick stretch out Thy hand,
And bid the fallen sinner stand;
Shine forth, and let Thy light restore
Earth’s own true loveliness once more.
5
All praise, eternal Son, to Thee
Whose advent sets Thy people free,
Whom with the Father we adore,
And Holy Spirit evermore.