1 Lord at thy temple we appear, As happy Simeon came, And hope to meet our Saviour here; O make our joys the same!
2 With what divine and vast delight The good old man was fill'd, When fondly in his wither'd arms He clasp'd the holy child!
3 "Now I can leave this world," he cry'd, "Behold thy servant dies, "I've seen thy great salvation, Lord, "And close my peaceful eyes.
4 "This is the light prepar'd to shine "Upon the Gentile lands, "Thine Israel's glory, and their hope "To break their slavish bands."
5 [Jesus, the vision of thy face Hath overpowering charms Scarce shall I feel death's cold embrace If Christ be in my arms.
6 Then while ye hear my heart-strings break, How sweet my minutes roll! A mortal paleness on my cheek, And glory in my soul.]