Luke: How often would I have gathered, &c

Would God decree His creature's pain,
Would Jesus pass one sinner by,
Of man's obduracy complain,
Or ask who must, Why will ye die?
Could Love Divine their death intend?
And mock with offers insincere?
His messengers to sinners send,
But first resolve they should not hear?

"How oft would I have gather'd you
And ye would not be gather'd in!"
Sinners believe the record true,
The truth itself in Christ is seen,
In pity's softest form appears
And fain would bring you all to God,
He weeps! believe His artless tears:
He bleeds! believe His speaking blood.