Classic Poem

O thou, whose grace and justice reign,
Enthron'd above the skies!
To thee our hearts would tell their pain,
To thee we lift our eyes: —

As servants watch their master's hand,
And fear the angry stroke;
Or maids before their mistress stand,
And wait a peaceful look.

While for our sins we justly feel
Thy discipline, O God!
We wait the gracious moment still,
Till thou remove thy rod.

Those who in wealth and pleasure live,
Our daily groans deride;
And thy delays of mercy give
Fresh courage to their pride.

Our foes insult us, but our hope
In thy compassion lies;
This thought shall bear our spirits up,
That God will not despise.