SWEET the moments, rich in blessing, Which before the cross I spend, Life, and health, and peace possessing From the sinner’s dying Friend!
Here I rest, in wonder viewing All my sins on Jesus laid, And a full redemption flowing From the sacrifice He made.
Here I find my hope of Heaven, While upon the Lamb I gaze; Loving much, and much forgiven, Let my heart o’erflow in praise.
Love and grief my heart dividing, With my tears His feet I’ll bathe; Constant still in faith abiding— Life deriving from His death.
Lord, in ceaseless contemplation Fix my thankful heart on Thee! Till I taste Thy full salvation, And Thine unveiled glory see.
William Walter Shirley, 1725-86