Isaac Watts
(1674-1748)
He dies—The Friend of Sinners dies!
Lo! Salem’s daughters weep around!
A solemn darkness veils the skies,
A sudden trembling shakes the ground.
Here’s love and grief beyond degree!
The Lord of Glory dies for men!
But, lo! What sudden joys we see—
Jesus the dead revives again!
The rising Lord forsakes the tomb!
(The tomb, in vain, forbids Him rise!)
Cherubic legions guard Him home,
And shout Him “welcome!” from the skies!
Break off your tears, ye saints, and tell
How high our great Deliv’rer reigns;
Sing how He spoiled the hosts of hell,
And led the monster Death in chains.
Say, “Live forever, Wondrous King!
Born to redeem and strong to save!”
Then ask the monster, “Where is thy sting?
And where thy vict’ry, boasting grave?”
(Special thanks to Wanda Hilyer for suggesting this classic!)
