Classic Poem

Thy law is perfect, Lord of light!
Thy testimonies sure;
The statutes of thy realm are right,
And thy commandment pure.

Holy, inviolate thy fear,
Enduring as thy throne;
Thy judgments, chastening or severe,
Justice and truth alone.

More prized than gold, — than gold whose waste
Refining fire expels;
Sweeter than honey to my taste,
Than honey from the cells.

Let these, O God! my soul convert,
And make thy servant wise;
Let these be gladness to my heart,
The day-spring to mine eyes.

By these may I be warn'd betimes;
Who knows the guile within?
Lord! save me from presumptuous crimes,
Cleanse me from secret sin!

So may the words my lips express,
The thoughts that throng my mind,
O Lord, my strength and righteousness!
With thee acceptance find.

The earth is God's with all its stores,
The world and all therein that be;
Upon the flood He fix'd the shores,
And gave his law unto the sea.

His holy mountain who shall climb,
Or tread his courts without offence?
— He who hath cleansed his heart from crime,
And wash'd his hands in innocence: —

From vanity hath turn'd his eyes,
Nor put to shame his neighbour's trust,
Practised deceit, or utter'd lies; —
He that is upright, pure, and just.

These shall enjoy Jehovah's grace;
To them his mercy shall be shown;
For these are they that seek thy face;
These, God of Jacob! Thou wilt own.

No. 2.

L IFT up your heads, ye gates! behold
The King of Glory draweth nigh;
Ye everlasting doors! unfold,
And give Him welcome to the sky.

Who is this King of Glory, — who?
— Jehovah, strong and mighty; — He
His foes in battle overthrew,
And crown'd Himself with victory.

Lift up your heads, ye gates! on high;
Eternal doors! throw wide your leaves;
The King of Glory draweth nigh,
And Him the heaven of heaven receives.

Who is this King of Glory, — say?
— The Lord of Hosts, whom we proclaim;
He is the King of Glory: — they
That know his power will fear his Name.