189 (LXXXV.--"O Welt, ich muss dich lassen."
"Nun ruhen alle Wälder.")
189.
Original Tune.
O Welt, ich muss dich lassen
J. Hesse, before 1547
O world, I now must leave thee, But little doth it grieve me, I seek my native land; True life I there inherit, And here I yield my spirit With joy to God's all-gracious hand. | So on His Word relying, I know while I am dying I seen shall see His face Through Christ whose death hath bought me, The Father's love He brought me, And now prepares for me a place. | The grave hath lost its terrors Since for my sins and errors My Saviour doth atone: My works can nought avail me, But His work cannot fail me, I rest in faith on Him alone. | My service cannot merit That I should e'er inherit Eternal life with Christ: But He hath freely given A share with Him in heaven Of that fair heritage unpriced. | And so I hence am going In peace, full surely knowing With Him is perfet rest; I feel Death's icy finger, My soul here cannot linger, Now would I stay--to go is best. | O world, I yet would teach thee That Death will surely reach thee, That thou must follow me; Then while thy days are lengthen'd Pray that thy faith be strengthen'd That God have mercy too on thee! | |