On Jordan's Banks, the Baptist's Cry

The third Sunday of Advent brings the story of John the Baptist.
Isaiah 65:17-25
1 Thessalonians 5:(12-15)16-28
John 1:6-8,19-28
Psalm 126

This wonderful hymn is not in the current United Methodist Hymnal. What a shame. it is a wonderful hymn.





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.

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.

For thou art our salvation, Lord,
our refuge and our great reward;
without thy grace we waste away
like flowers that wither and decay.

To heal the sick stretch out thine hand,
and bid the fallen sinner stand;
shine forth and let thy light restore
earth's own true loveliness once more.

All praise, eternal Son, to thee,
whose advent doth thy people free;
whom with the Father we adore
and Holy Ghost for evermore.


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Words: Charles Coffin, 1736;
trans. John Chandler, 1837
Music: Winchester New