The breaking morn, in cheerful ray,
With many a promise opes the day,
Setting the sun upon his way,
To tread his radiant journey.
So faith’s fair spring-time opens heaven,
When clouds and doubts are backward drives,
Revealing Christ to sinners given;
Their morning pledge of glory.
Then, as in robes of glittering dye,
The ruler of the mid-day sky,
With fruitful ardor from on high,
Blesses the world before him.
So, Christ, in risen virtue strong,
Our life, our victory, strength, and song,
In freedom bears our souls along
To serve and to adore Him.
And then, at eve, with “farewell sweet,”
The day retires — so soon to greet
Regions that wait his smile to meet
Its varied beauties blending.
So faith, in hopeful evening hour,
Calm in the Savior’s chastened power,
Anchors beside earth’s parting shore,
In sight of joys unending.