The christian

William Cowper · 1779

Catalog grade guidance: 3–5 — Olney hymn for school recitation; preview archaic diction.

28 content lines · 155 words · Est. recitation about 1 min 54 sec (approx.)

Public-domain text for reading and recitation practice. Source: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (Olney Hymns, 1779).Estimated time uses ~120 words/minute plus short pauses—not a contest rule.

Hymn 50

William Cowper

8,8,8,8

The christian.

Honor and happiness unite

To make the christian's name a praise;

How fair the scene, how clear the light,

That fills the remnant of his days!

A kingly character he bears,

No change his priestly office knows;

Unfading is the crown he wears,

His joys can never reach a close.

Adorned with glory from on high,

Salvation shines upon his face;

His robe is of th' ethereal dye,

His steps are dignity and grace.

Inferior honors he disdains,

Nor stoops to take applause from earth,

The King of kings himself, maintains

Th' expenses of his heav'nly birth.

The noblest creature seen below,

Ordained to fill a throne above;

GOD gives him all he can bestow,

His kingdom of eternal love!

My soul is ravished at the thought!

Methinks from earth I see him rise;

Angels congratulate his lot,

And shout him welcome to the skies!