Classic Poem

Ere our blessed Lord ascended,
To thErealms of light and joy;
Ere by seraph bands attended,
He had passed to Heaven's employ;

What a glad, a bright commission,
All His loved disciples bore,
Grace to men of all conditions,
Mercy to the farthest shore.

How they preached that great salvation,
Fearless of the sword and flame,
Till the Jew and Gentile nation,
Heard that One availing name!

Others now with armor girded,
Sound those trumpet notes of love,
Till each distant isle has heard it,
And each mountain height above.

Saviour, speed the work with blessing,
Bid the day-spring gild the skies,
Till the World, thy grace possessing,
From its moral bondage rise.

Then, each idol shrine forsaken,
Father, all shall worship Thee;
And this earth its song awaken,
" Christ, our King, has made us free. "