Author:Philip Doddridge. Published posthumously in 1755 as Hymn 171, subtitled "God's name profaned, when his table is treated with contempt", based on Malachi 1:12. Meter is 88. 88 (L.M.).
1. My God, and is thy table spread,
And doth thy cup with love o'er-flow?
Thither be all thy children led,
And let them all thy sweetness know.
2. Hail, sacred feast which Jesus makes!
Rich banquet of his flesh and blood!
Thrice happy he, who here partakes
That sacred stream, that heavenly food!
3. Why are its dainties all in vain
Before unwilling hearts displayed?
Was not for them the victim slain?
Are you forbid the children’s bread?
4. O let thy table honored be,
And furnished well with joyful guests;
And may each soul salvation see,
That here its sacred pledges tastes.
5. Let crowds approach with hearts prepared;
With hearts inflamed let all attend;
Nor, when we leave our Father's board,
The pleasure or the profit end.
6. Revive our dying churches, Lord,
And bid our drooping graces live;
And more that energy afford,
A Savior's blood alone can give.
English text