489    C.M.     J. Hart
Christ’s Ascension. Luke 24. 51-53; Ps. 68. 18

1 Now for a theme of thankful praise
  To tune the stammerer’s tongue;
  Christians, your hearts and voices raise,
  And join the joyful song.

2 The Lord’s ascended up on high,
  Decked with resplendent wounds;
  While shouts of victory rend the sky,
  And heaven with joy resounds.

3 See, from the regions of the dead,
  Through all the ethereal plains,
  The powers of darkness captive led,
  The dragon dragged in chains.

4 Ye eternal gates, your leaves unfold!
  Receive the conquering King;
  Ye angels, strike your harps of gold;
  And saints, triumphant sing.

5 Sinners, rejoice! he died for you;
  For you prepares a place;
  Sends down his Spirit to guide you through
  With every gift of grace.

6 His blood, which did your sins atone,
  For your salvation pleads;
  And, seated on his Father’s throne,
  He reigns and intercedes.