1. Outside the Holy City Unnumbered footsteps throng,
2. Once more beside a city The Son of David waits,
And crowded mart and streets of trade Fling back a swelling song.
Once more the children throng to bring A welcome at the gates.
The voices echo nearer, In flaming hope they sing;
Within are hearts sore burdened And feet that go astray;
“Throw down your branches at his feet! Hosanna to the King!”
O Christ of God, come near and walk Our city streets today!

3. The branches that we offer
Are no unmeaning sign;
Take thou the hands we lift on high
And make them wholly thine.
No songs of shallow welcome
Are these we raise to thee;
O give us faith to face the cross
And set thy city free!

4. A distant music mingles
With all our songs today,
The chorale from a city fair
Where sin has passed away.
There rides the Christ triumphant
And victory song ring clear;
O God, give us the strength to build
With Christ that city here!