Classic Poem

Wake ! the costly hours are fleeting;
Wake, arise!
Wake, and let thy joyous greeting
Pierce the skies!
God to thee an angel sendeth,
From the azure heavens descendeth
Fresh as May
The new-born Day.

On her head a crown she weareth,
With blessings rife;
In her hands a cup she beareth,
A cup of life.
Every drop of its full measure
Is a pearl of heavenly treasure:
Haste; arise!
Claim the prize!

Let some drops in free libation
First be poured,
Poured in lowly adoration
To thy Lord!
To Him who bore such anguish for thee,
Him who, risen, watcheth o'er thee,
Wake and raise
Songs of praise!

Where the watch thou should'st be keeping?
Child of day!
Saints are weeping, sinners sleeping,
Rise and pray!
Think what Night is deepening o'er thee,
Think what Morning lies before thee,
Child of Day,
Rise and pray!

Saviour, rouse me, nerve me, bless me
With strength divine;
Wholly let Thy love possess me, —
Me and mine.
Let each moment soar above
Laden with some work of love,
Till we rise
To Thy skies.

That, thus knit in blessed union,
Lord, to Thee!
Every act may be communion,
Lord, with Thee!
And Thy presence ever near us
May o'er each temptation cheer us
Thus to rise —