The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.
Psalm 51:17
Words: John B. Hammer, 1871. Appeared in Hymnal and Liturgies of the Moravian Church (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Provincial Synod, 1920), number 786.
Music: Martha John B. Hammer, 1871 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Hammer (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Savior, now with contrite hearts
We approach Thy throne of love;
Asking pardon for our sins,
Peace and comfort from above.
Thou didst suffer on the cross
To atone for sinners’ guilt;
May we never, Lord, forget
That for us Thy blood was spilt.
Now to Thee ourselves we bring,
Cleanse us, Lord, we humbly pray;
Undeserving though we be,
Draw us closer every day.
Thou our refuge art, and strength!
Keep, O keep us safe from harm,
Shield us through the coming night
By Thine everlasting arm.