O how divine, how sweet the joy,

When but one sinner turns,

And, with a humble, broken heart,

His sins and errors mourns!

2 Pleased with the news, the saints below,

In songs their tongues employ;

Beyond the skies the tidings go,

And heaven is filled with joy.

3 Well pleased the Father sees, and hears

The conscious sinner’s moan;

Jesus receives him in his arms,

And claims him for his own.

4 Nor angels can their joy contain,

But kindle with new fire;

“The sinner lost is found,” they sing,

And strike the sounding lyre.