Author: Philipp Friedrich Hiller (1699-1769) Composer: Johann Ludwig Friedrich Hainlin (1750-1823)
1. To me is given boundless mercy, A gift that I did not deserve; Such wondrous love, it is so marv’lous, That such for me should be reserved. But since I know, I will rejoice, And praise Thy mercy with my voice.
2. And I who naught but wrath did merit, Shall now in grace with God abide! He reconciled my wayward spirit, Through His own blood, and gave me light. From whence came this? What is it for? Unbounded mercy, nothing more.
3. To Thee, O God, I must confess it, Thy grace to me Thou didst impart. Before all men I will express it, Because I feel it in my heart. I bow before Thee and rejoice, And praise Thy mercy with my voice.
4. No man shall take this rich possession, It is my boast and my delight; My faith in “Mercy” finds expression, In pray’r I praise its wondrous might. On this compassion I endure Unto my death in hope secure.
5. Lord, Thou who art so rich in mercy, Take Thy compassion not from me. And when death calls, then lead me surely Through my dear Saviour’s death to Thee. Eternally I will rejoice, And praise Thy mercy with my voice.
6. Give me, Lord, sympathy and mercy With my poor brethren in distress, My bitt’rest foe to love and pity. Thy love in death Thou didst confess. Thy blood for sinners does implore: Compassion! grace, forevermore.