Today’s hymn was written by the great John Milton (1608-1684). He wrote several paraphrases of select Psalms haven’t gained the favor of hymnal editors. The tune sung above by the congregation of Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina, Lagos, Nigeria is “St. Stephen” by William Jones, rector of the church in Hollingbourne, Kent.
“Let me hear what God the LORD will speak,
for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;
but let them not turn back to folly.
Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,
that glory may dwell in our land.” (Ps 85:8-9 ESV)
1 The Lord will come and not be slow,
his footsteps cannot err;
before him righteousness shall go,
his royal harbinger.
2 Truth from the earth, like to a flow’r,
shall bud and blossom then,
and justice, from her heav’nly bow’r,
look down on mortal men.
3 Rise, God, and judge the earth in might,
this wicked earth redress;
for you are he who shall by right
the nations all possess.
4 For great you are, and wonders great
by your strong hand are done:
you, in your everlasting seat,
remain the Lord alone.