Preparation for Death, 1

Jesus, to Thee distress'd I cry,
A sinner at the point to die,
Before I yield my breath;
Thy mercy in my heart reveal,
And save a soul Thou lovedst so well
From everlasting death.

Thy heartfelt love alone can save
My soul from that infernal grave,
That worm which never dies
Can ascertain my sins forgiven,
Bless with an antepast of heaven.
And fit me for the skies.

What shall I say Thy love to gain?
Remind Thee of the mortal pain
Which bought the grace for me?
Thy pain Thou never canst forget,
Thine agony and bloody sweat,
Thy prayer on Calvary.

Why wast Thou there of God forsook,
Why didst Thou to Thy Father look,
And gasp for help in vain?
Why did Thy blood so kindly flow,
But that I might the blessing know
Of loving Thee again?

By all Thou didst on earth endure,
To make our peace and pardon sure,
My instant suit allow,
The grace for which alone I pray;
Streaming afresh Thy wounds display,
And grant the blessing now.

Behold me with Thy closing eye,
Revive by Thy expiring cry,
And let me hence depart,
Exclaiming with my latest breath,
Thou know'st I love Thee, Lord, in death,
I give Thee all my heart!