The humble Publican

1 Now see the Publican opprest,
With all his heinous Sins;
And he stands, and smites his Breast,
And humbly thus begins.

2 Great GOD! behold, and now extend,
Thy rich free Grace to me;
Tho' nought I have to recommend
My guilty Soul to Thee.

3 I am a Sinner, I confess,
Polluted all, and vile;
Yet, Lord, amidst my deep Distress,
In Mercy on me smile.

4 God heard his penitential Cry,
And answer'd his Request,
Pass'd all his black Offences by,
And eas'd his throbbing Breast.

5 While on the boasting Pharisee
He looks with angry Frown,
The humble Publican doth he
In tender Mercy own.

6 O Sinners! here Example take,
To ply the Throne of Grace;
God surely will, for Jesus' sake
An Answer grant of Peace.

Source: A Choice Collection of Hymns and Spiritual Songs: intended for the edification of sincere Christians of all denominations #XVIII