Why, weepest thou and sighest

1st Voice
1 Why weepest thou and sighest,
Afflicted, weary soul?
If thou on Christ reliest,
His grace will make thee whole.

2d Voice
Oh! I have grieved his Spirit;
My sins are great and high;
Can ever Jesus' merit
Save such a wretch as I?

1st Voice
2 His merit and his power
Can save a world like thee;
He waits this very hour,
To set the captive free.

2d Voice
Oh! could I but go to him,
My suit I would prepare;
My sorrows I would show him,
And plead with earnest pray'r.

1st Voice
3 Take courage, he is near thee,
He now is passing by;
Speak out and let him hear thee;
For pardoning mercy cry.

2d Voice
Oh! I am dumb with sadness,
And blind with unbelief;
Will he not chide my madness?
Will he not mock my grief?

1st Voice
4 Lo! Jesus now invites thee,
"Come, troubled soul, to me;
No other work delights me
Like saving such as thee."

2d Voice
And wilt thou then relieve me?
My blessed Lord, I come:
Thou wilt, thou dost receive me;
My heart shall be thy home.

Source: The Minstrel of Zion: a book of religious songs, accompanied with appropriate music, chiefly original #71