Classic Poem

The sunset, like a flaming sword,
Between our sight and Paradise.
Offers its red fire to our eyes —
A symbol of earth's Lord.

The crocus shows above the ground
Its glowing lamp of yellow flame,
It seems a letter of the Name
Which choirs of angels sound.

An altar all this fair earth is,
The Christian mind the priest,
The greatest thinker or the least
Is acolyte of His.

For nature gives us what we bring,
Not more, nor any less;
The meaning of her varied dress
Must in our minds first spring.

Thus Easter gilds the opening year,
Because Christ is our joy;
The sunset brave, the crocus coy,
Reflect Him bright and clear.

Nature's a sphinx to those who know
Not Resurrection time!
We read her well; in every clime
Faith makes her meaning glow.