PSALM LI.

George Burgess

I own my sin: before my sight
It always, always, glares in light:
Thee, thee alone, my crimes defied,
And thou wert just, though I had died!

From sin I drew this seed of death;
In sin my mother gave me breath:
But spotless truth thou seek'st within;
Then, cleanse the inmost fount of sin.

Purge me with hyssop, steep'd on high,
And all my leprous taint shall fly;
And wash me where thy mercies flow,
And I shall mock the mountain snow.

Mine ears with joyous tidings fill,
Till all my aching bones shall thrill:
Turn far away thy wrathful look;
And blot my trespass from thy book.

Create my heart anew and pure,
And give a spirit right and sure;
Nor cast me trembling from thy sight,
Nor wing thy Holy Spirit's flight.

Send thy salvation's joy once more,
And thy free Spirit's help restore:
Then sinners from my lips shall learn,
And on my steps to thee return.

O God, my God and Saviour, save
My soul from guilt's dark, blood-red wave;
And ope my lips, and I shall sing
Sweet praise to thee, my righteous King!

Thou seek'st not victims at the shrine,
Else should thine altar smoke with mine;
A broken heart delights thine eyes,
A contrite heart for sacrifice.

Be gracious, Lord, when Sion calls,
And build on high thy Salem's walls:
Then, off'rings just thy love shall see,
And all our wealth shall rise to thee.