A Selection of Hymns for Public Worship. In four parts (10th ed.) (Gadsby's Hymns) 219. Now for a wondrous song

Text:	The Prodigal
Author:	Hart

219. The Prodigal

1 Now for a wondrous song,
(Keep distance, ye profane;
Be silent, each unhallowed tongue,
Nor turn the truth to bane,)

2 The prodigal’s returned –
The rebel bold and base,
That all his Father’s counsel spurned,
And long abused his grace.

3 What treatment since he came?
Love, tenderly expressed.
What robe is brought to hide his shame?
The best, the very best.

4 Rich food the servants bring;
Sweet music charms his ears;
See what a beauteous, costly ring
The beggar’s finger wears!

5 [Ye elder sons, be still;
Give no bad passion vent;
My brethren, ’tis our Father’s will,
And you must be content.

6 All that he has is yours!
Rejoice, then, not repine;
That love which all your state secures,
That love has altered mine.]

7 Dear Lord! are these thy ways?
If rebels thus are freed,
And favoured with peculiar grace,
Grace must be free indeed!

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