Mercy and Truth

1 When first the GOD of boundless grace
Disclos'd his kind design,
To rescue our apostate race
From mis'ry, shame, and sin;

2 Quick, through the realms of light and bliss,
The joyful tidings ran;
Each heart exulted at the news,
That GOD would dwell with man.

3 Yet 'midst their joys they paus'd awhile
And asked with strange surprise,
"But how can injur'd justice smile;
"Or look with pitying eyes?

4 ["Will the Almighty deign again
"To visit yonder world;
"And hither bring rebellious men,
"Whence rebels once were hurl'd?

5 "Their tears, and groans, and deep distress
"Aloud for mercy call;
"But ah! must truth and righteousness
"To mercy victims fall?"

6 So spake the friends of GOD and man,
Delighted, yet surpris'd;
Eager to know the wond'rous plan,
That wisdom had devis'd.]

7 The Son of GOD attentive heard,
And quickly thus reply'd,
"In me let mercy be reve'd,
"And justice satisfy'd.

8 "Behold! my vital blood I pour,
"A sacrifice to GOD;
"Let angry justice now no more
"Demand the sinner's blood."

9 He spake, and heaven's high arches rung,
With shouts of loud applause;
"He dy'd," the friendly angels sung,
Nor cease their rapturous joys.


Source: A New Selection of Hymns; designed for the use of conference meetings, private circles, and congregations, as a supplement to Dr. Watts' Psalms and Hymns #48