On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry

Tune: Puer Nobis Nascitur · Meter 8 8 8 8

1 On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry Announces that the Lord is nigh; Come, then, and hearken, for he brings Glad tidings from the King of kings!

2 Then cleansed be every breast 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 our souls must fade And wither like a flow'r decayed.

4 Stretch forth Thine hand, to heal our sore, And make us rise and fall no more; Once more upon Thy people shine, And fill the world with love divine.

5 To Him Who left the throne of Heav'n To save mankind, all praise be giv'n; Like praise be to the Father done, And Holy Spirit, Three in One.

Words: Charles (or Carolo or Carolus) Coffin (1676–1749); translated by John Chandler (1806–1876)
Music: Michael Praetorius (1571–1621); setting by George Ratcliffe Woodward (1848–1934)
Scripture: Jn 1:19-23, Mt 3:1-12, Mk 1:1-8, Lk 3:1-14, Mk 1:40-45
Public domain. From the Open Hymnal Project.