As birds their infant brood protect,
by William Cowper·1779·Meter 8.8.8.8 (LM)
Based on Ezek 48:33; Is 31:5
1
As birds their infant brood protect,
And spread their wings to shelter them;
Thus saith the LORD to his elect,
"So will I guard Jerusalem."
2
And what then is Jerusalem,
This darling object of his care?
Where is its worth in God's esteem,
Who built it? who inhabits there?
3
Jehovah founded it in blood,
The blood of his incarnate Son;
There dwell the saints, once foes to God,
The sinners, whom he calls his own.
4
There, though besieged on every side,
Yet much beloved and guarded well;
From age to age they have defied,
The utmost force of earth and hell.
5
Let earth repent, and hell despair,
This city has a sure defence;
Her name is called, the LORD is there,
And who has pow'r to drive him thence.