1 When some kind shepherd from his fold
Has lost a straying sheep,
Through vales, o’er hills, he anxious roves,
And climbs the mountains steep.

2 But O, the joy! the transport sweet!
When he the wanderer finds!
Upon his arms he takes his charge,
And to his shoulder binds.

3 Homeward he hastes to tell his joys,
And make his bliss complete;
The neighbors hear the news, and all
The joyful shepherd greet.

4 Such, and much greater is the joy
When but one sinner turns;
When the poor wretch with broken heart,
His sins and error mourns.

5 Pleased with the news, the saints below
In songs their tongues employ;
Beyond the skies the tidings go,
And Heaven is filled with joy.

6 Well pleased the Father sees, and hears
The conscious sinner weep;
Jesus receives him in His arms,
And owns him for His sheep.

7 Nor angels can their joys contain
But kindle with new fire;
"A wandering sheep’s returned," they sing
And strike the sounding lyre.