The Poetry Corner

Translations. - Death. (Luther's Song-Book.)

By George MacDonald

In the midst of life, we are Aye in Death's embraces. Who is there who help us can And in safety place us? Lord, thou art he, thou only. From our ill deeds we sorrowing turn That have made thy anger burn. Holy, holy Lord God, Holy, mighty Lord God, Holy Saviour with the tender heart, Everlasting God, Let us not be swallowed In the misery of death: Lord, have mercy upon us. In the midst of death, behold Hell's jaws gaping at us! Who will from such dire distress Free and scathless set us? Lord, that dost thou, thou only: It fills thy tender heart with woe We should sin and suffer so. Holy, holy Lord God, Holy, mighty Lord God, Holy Saviour with the tender heart, Everlasting God, Let us not be gasted By hell's hollows all aglow: Lord, have mercy upon us. When amidst the pains of hell Us our sins are baiting; Whither shall we flee away Where relief is waiting? To thee, Lord Christ, thee only Who didst outpour thy precious blood For our sins sufficing good: Holy, holy Lord God, Holy, mighty Lord God, Holy Saviour with the tender heart, Everlasting God, Let us not fall from thee, From comfort of the right faith: Lord, have mercy upon us.