BEHOLD the love, the generous love, That gracious David shows: See how his strong emotions move For his afflicted foes.
When they are sick his soul complains, And seems to feel the smart; The spirit of the Gospel reigns, And melts his kindly heart.
How did his strong concerns condole As for a loved one dead! And fasting mortified his soul, While for their life he prayed.
O glorious type of heavenly grace! Thus Christ the Lord appears; While sinners curse, the Saviour prays, And pities them with tears.
He, Son of David, Zion’s King, Blessed and beloved of God, To save us rebels (dead in sin) Paid His own dearest blood.
Isaac Watts, 1674-1748