William Cowper

Olney Hymn 27. Welcome to the Table

This is the feast of heavenly wine,
    And God invites to sup; 
The juices of the living Vine
    Were press'd to fill the cup.

Oh! bless the Saviour, ye that eat,
    With royal dainties fed; 
Not heaven affords a costlier treat,
    For Jesus is the bread.

The vile, the lost, He calls to them;
    Ye trembling souls, appear! 
The righteous in their own esteem
    Have no acceptance here.

Approach, ye poor, nor dare refuse
    The banquet spread for you; 
Dear Saviour, this is welcome news,
    Then I may venture too.

If guilt and sin afford a plea,
    And may obtain a place, 
Surely the Lord will welcome me,
    And I shall see his face.