When will “the day break, and the shadows flee away?” Cant 2:17.
“QUICKLY,” beloved! I know thine heart is beating
With deep emotion to behold my face,
But for “a little while,” wilt thou not spread the tidings
Of the sweet message of my love and grace?
Faint not, beloved! Think not of life’s sad burden,
Let the dead past, its own sad memories
Live in the present, now with chastened spirit learning
How blest are they who my commands fulfill.
Fear not, beloved! mine eye is ever watching,
Thy tears are numbered in my deep, deep love,
Thy weary sighs, and all thine heart’s deep yearnings
Are registered by me in heaven above.
Trust, trust, beloved! I know the would frowns coldly,
But this should only drive thee nearer me.
Earth’s broken links make heaven’s affection stronger,
The cross will only make the crown more bright for thee,
Look up, beloved! tread finely on the billows,
Thou canst not sink beneath life’s troubled sea.
Look up! then shalt thou learn the needful lesson meekly;
How mine own hand bath planned thy path for thee.
Rest, rest, beloved! thine head upon my bosom,
Lean on my arm, and tell thy griefs to me.
My heart is thine in all the full perfection
Of sympathy none else could give to thee.
Weep not, beloved, because thou yet in ant tarry,
Wilt thou not serve me heart and lewd meanwhile?
Some hearts around thee pine in lonely sorrow,
Couldst thou not give one kindly look or tender mile?
Go forth, beloved! life’s ministry is earnest,
Crushed hearts throng round thee, in thy path below,
Fond hopes once cherished, now by death are blighted
Knowest thou not a balm to soothe their woe!
Yes, yes, beloved! I read thine heart’s glad answer
Yes, thou wilt do this work of love for me,
Only “a little while,” and earth’s sad scenes of sorrow
Shall change to glory bright prepared for thee.
Then, then, beloved! heaven’s song of joy awaking
Triumphant “Hallelujah” thou shalt raise,
Then shalt thou gaze upon my face, and ever
“Knowing as known” pour forth thine endless praise.
TETBURY