Thou shalt have joy and gladness.
Luke 1:14
Words: Johann Lindemann, Amorum Filii Dei Decades Duae (Erfurt, Germany: 1598) (In dir ist Freude). Translated from German to English by Catherine Winkworth, Lyra Germanica, second series, 1858.
Music: In dir ist Freude from the madrigal Alieta vita, adapted in Baletti a Cinque Voci, Giovanni G. Gastoldi, 1593 (🔊 pdf nwc).
In Thee is gladness, amid all sadness,
Jesus, sunshine of my heart.
By Thee are given the gifts of Heaven,
Thou the true Redeemer art.
Our souls Thou makest, our bonds Thou breakest;
Who trusts Thee surely hath built securely,
And stands forever. Alleluia!
If God be ours, we fear no powers,
Not of earth or sin or death.
God sees and blesses in worst distresses,
And can change them in a breath.
Wherefore the story tell of God’s glory
With heart and voices; all Heaven rejoices,
Singing forever: Alleluia!