Easter Hymn (II.)

Ye sons and daughters of the Lord!

The King of glory, King ador'd,

This day Himself from death restor'd.

All in the early morning grey

Went holy women on their way,

To see the tomb where Jesus lay.

Of spices pure a precious store

In their pure hands those women bore,

To anoint the sacred Body o'er.

Then straightway one in white they see,

Who saith, "The Lord is ris'n, and He

Precedes you into Galilee."

This told they Peter, told they John,

Who forthwith to the tomb are gone,

But Peter is by John outrun.

That selfsame night, while out of fear

The doors were shut, their Lord most dear

To His Apostles did appear.

But Thomas, when of this he heard,

Was doubtful of his brethren's word;

Wherefore again there comes the Lord.

"Thomas, behold my side," saith He;

"My hands, my feet, my body see,

And doubt not, but believe in me."

When Thomas saw that wounded side,

The truth no longer he denied;

"Thou art my Lord and God!" he cried.

Oh blest are they who have not seen

Their Lord, and yet believe in him!

Eternal life awaiteth them.

Now let us praise the Lord most high,

And strive His name to magnify

On this great day through earth and sky,

Whose mercy ever runneth o'er;

Whom men and angel hosts adore;

To Him be glory evermore.