HYMN XVIII. The humble Publican

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

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

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

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

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

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