1. On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry

announces that the Lord in nigh;

awake and hearken, for he brings

glad tidings of the King of kings.

2. Then cleansed be every breast from sin;

make straight the way of God within,

and let each heart prepare 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 doth thy people free;

whom with the Father we adore

and Holy Spirit evermore.