1 Attend, and mark the solemn fast
which to the Lord is dear;
disdain the false unhallow'd mask
which vain dissemblers wear.
2 Do I delight in sorrow’s dress?
saith he who reigns above;
the hanging head and rueful look,
will they attract my love?

3 Let such as feel oppression’s load
thy tender pity share:
and let the helpless, homeless poor,
be thy peculiar care.
4 Go, bid the hungry orphan be
with thy abundance blest;
invite the wand’rer to thy gate,
and spread the couch of rest.

5 Let him who pines with piercing cold
by thee be warm'd and clad;
be thine the blissful task to make
the downcast mourner glad.
6 Then, bright as morning, shall come forth,
in peace and joy, thy days;
and glory from the Lord above
shall shine on all thy ways.