Ancient and Modern ‎#46

46. On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry

1 On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry
announces that the Lord is nigh;
awake 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 we waste away,
like flowers that wither and decay.

4 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.

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

Text Information

• First Line: On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry
• Latin Title: Jordanis oras praevia
• Author: Charles Coffin (1676-1749)
• Translator: John Chandler (1806-1876)
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2013
• Scripture:
  Psalm 50:2
  ;
  Isaiah 40:3-9
  ;
  Luke 3:1-18
• Topic: Advent; Church Year: Advent; God: in grace and mercy; Healing; John the Baptist; Light; Other Saints and Festivals: The Birth of John the Baptist; Proper 21: Year A; The Baptism of Christ: Year A; The Baptism of Christ: Year B; The Baptism of Christ: Year C; The Second Sunday of Advent: Year B; The Second Sunday of Advent: Year C; Saints: St John Baptist

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER NEW
• Meter: LM
• Key: B♭ Major
• Source: Adapted from a chorale in Musicalisches Hand-Buch, Hamburg, 1690