197 (LXXXVI.--"O wie selig seid ihr doch, ihr Frommen.")
197.
Original Tune.
O wie selig seid ihr doch, ihr Frommen
S. Dach, 1657
Oh how blest are ye behond our telling Who have pass'd through death, with God are dwelling, For ever risen From the troubles of our earthly prison. | Here as in a dungeon grief hath bound us, Cares and fear and terrors still surround us, Our best endeavour But in toil and heart-ache issues ever. | While that ye are in your mansions resting, Safe and free at last from all molesting, No cross or sadness There can hinder your untroubled gladness. | Christ doth wipe away all tears and crying, Ye possess what we must seek with sighing; To you are chanted Songs that ne'er to mortal ears were granted. | Oh who would not for that home of joyance Gladly leave a land of dark annoyance? Who loves delaying 'Mid a world of shadows and decaying? | Come, we pray Thee, from out post release us; Quickly guide us to Thy heaven, Lord Jesus: In Thee the spirit Can alone true joy and rest inherit! | |