The Legion Dispossessed

Legion was my name by nature, Satan raged within my breast, Never misery was greater, Never sinner more possess’d: Mischievous to all around me, To myself the greatest foe; Thus I was when Jesus found me, Fill’d with madness, sin, and woe.

Yet in this forlorn condition, When he came to see me free, I replied to my Physician, “What have I to do with thee?” But he would not be prevented, Rescued me against my will: Had he stayed till I consented I had been a captive still.

“Satan, though thou fain wouldst have it, Know this soul is none of thine; I have shed my blood to save it, Now I challenge it for mine; Though it long has thee resembled, Henceforth it shall me obey: Thus He spoke, while Satan trembled, Gnash’d his teeth, and fled away.

Thus my frantic soul He heal’d, Bid my sins and sorrows cease; “Take,” said he, “my pardon sealed, I have saved thee—go in peace.” Rather take me, Lord, to heaven, Now thy love and grace I know; Since thou hast my sins forgiven, Why should I remain below?

“Love,” he said, “will sweeten labours; Thou hast something yet to do; Go and tell your friends and neighbours What my love has done for you; Live to manifest my glory, Wait for heaven a little space: Sinners, when they hear thy story, Will repent and seek my face.”