For thee, O dear, dear country, Mine eyes their vigils keep ; For very love, beholding Thy happy name, they weep. The mention of thy glory Is unction to the breast, And medicine in sickness, And love, and life, and rest.
2. With jasper glow thy bulwarks, Thy streets with emeralds blaze ; The sardius and the topaz Unite in thee their rays ; Thine ageless walls are bonded With amethyst unpriced ; The saints build up its fabric, The cornerstone is Christ.
3. Thou hast no shore, fair ocean ; Thou hast no time, bright day; Dear fountain of refreshment To pilgrims far away : Upon the Rock of Ages They raise thy holy tower ; Thine is the victor's laurel, And thine the golden dower.
4. Oh, sweet and blessed country, The home of God's elect ! Oh, sweet and blessed country, That eager hearts expect ! Jesus, in mercy bring us To that dear land of rest, Who art, with God the Father, And Spirit, ever blest.