When, as returns this solemn day
1
When, as returns this solemn day,Man comes to meet his God,What rites, what honors shall he pay?How spread his praise abroad?
2
From marble domes and gilded spiresShall clouds of incense rise?And gems, and gold, and garlands deckThe costly sacrifice?
3
Vain, sinful man! creation's LordThy offerings well may spare;But give thy heart, and thou shalt findThy God will hear thy prayer.