Praise to the Sovereign Lord
1 Praise to the Sovereign Lord:
our mighty God is he,
who comes himself and pays the debt
that sets his people free.
As prophesied of old,
he sends us David’s heir
to rescue us from enemies
who threaten to ensnare.
2 Love is the power that forged
the covenant of God
with Abraham and all who tread
the path of faith he trod;
delivering us from harm
he drives away our fear,
renewing us with holy strength
to serve him year by year.
3 Welcome the infant, John,
foretold from ancient days,
and hear a mute and ageing priest
burst forth in joyful praise.
The child becomes a man
and soon his task begins:
a herald sent to pave the way
for him who pardons sins.
4 Join the prophetic psalm
as Zechariah’s voice
declares the tender grace of God
that makes this world rejoice:
the gloom of night recedes
and captives find release
where Christ breaks through, as morning light,
and guides us into peace.
Emma Turl
After Zechariah’s Song
Luke 1:68-79 (Benedictus)
Metre: 6 6 8 6 D (SMD)
Suggested tunes: BENEDICTUS (John Turl); DIADEMATA (George Job Elvey)
words © Emma Turl / Jubilate admin. Jubilate Hymns Ltd
copyrightmanager@jubilatehymns.co.uk