Chere remaineth a Rest for the People WHEN trials beset us, and earth's comforts fly, That accompany mortals remaining below, Since they're given to wean us away from the snares Of the tempter, who plunges his victims in woe? The God who display'd his compassionate love, By sending his Son for our sins to atone— If we trust in this Saviour-will take us above, Where sorrow and tears are for ever unknown. With prospects so glorious, why should we fear The few fleeting years yet on earth to be passed? Every pain we endure without murmuring here, Will but heighten the glory of heaven at last! "Eye hath not beheld, nor hath ear ever heard, "Nor can mortals the fulness and glory conceive" Of the bliss which is promised in God's holy word, As reserved for His children who love and believe. Then may we in future more patiently bear Each stroke which our Father sees fit to impose, Assured that His presence, if ask'd for in prayer, Will sustain us till death all our trials shall close! WILLIAM GURNER. The Beavenly Jerusalem. HIGH in yonder realms of light, Strong and durable are they; Glad within these blest abodes, These, alas! full well they knew, Oft their vileness they deplored, Wills perverse, and hearts untrue, Grieved they could not love their Lord, Love him as they wish'd to do. THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM. 153 Oft the big, unbidden tear, Stealing down the furrow'd cheek, Tales of woe they could not speak; 'Mid the chorus of the skies, Where no grief can entrance find: All is tranquil and serene, Calm and undisturb'd repose; There no cloud can intervene, There no angry tempest blows. Every tear is wiped away, Sigh no more shall heave the breast, Night is lost in endless day; Sorrow, in eternal rest! RAFFLES. |