On the Earthquake. Sept. 8, 1775

I

Although on massy pillars built,
The earth has lately shook:
It trembles under Britain’s guilt
Before its Maker’s look.

II

Swift as the shock amazement spreads,
And sinners tremble too;
What flight can screen their guilty heads,
If earth itself pursue?

III

But mercy spared us while it warn’d⁠—
The shock is felt no more:
And mercy, now, alas! is scorn’d
By sinners, as before.

IV

But if these warnings prove in vain,
Say, sinner, canst thou tell
How soon the earth may quake again,
And open wide to hell?

V

Repent before the Judge draws nigh;
Or else, when he comes down,
Thou wilt in vain for earthquakes cry,
To hide thee from his frown.

VI

But happy they who love the Lord,
And his salvation know;
The hope that’s founded on his word,
No change can overthrow.

VII

Should the deep-rooted hills be hurl’d,
And plunged beneath the seas,
And strong convulsions shake the world,
Your hearts may rest in peace.

VIII

Jesus, your Shepherd, Lord, and Chief,
Shall shelter you from ill,
And not a worm or shaking leaf
Can move but at his will.