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 life from sin;
Make straight the way for God within,
And let each heart prepare a home
Where such a mighty guest may come.

3 For you are our salvation, Lord,
Our refuge, and our great reward;
Without your grace we waste away
Like flow'rs that wither and decay.

4 To heal the sick stretch out your hand,
And bid the fallen sinner stand;
Shine forth, and let your light restore
Earth's own true loveliness once more.

5 All praise the Son eternally,
Whose advent set his people free;
Whom with the Father we adore
And Spirit blest for evermore.