^ yr 4 TT'T-^,- -^^ AHjan^'Xfy^^ \i^v Class Book 2r!=!^l_^^L0L_^ CopyrightN!^._/#//_ COPYRIGHT DEPOSm SONGS IN THE EVENING BY EMILY A. DINWIDDIE BOSTON SHERMAN, FRENCH & COMPANY 1911 ? Copyright, 1911 Sherman, French 2 NOW 44 COME TO JESUS .......... 45 UNCHANGEABLE 46 THE GOOD SHEPHERD ........ 48 LITTLE CHILDREN 50 SATISFIED 51 TRUSTING 52 JESUS WEPT . . 54 FREED 55 MY PORTION 57 SAFE 59 GRACE TO HELP . 61 THE NAME OF JESUS 64 QUESTIONS ............ 65 THE RECOMPENSE 66 AT LAZARUS' GRAVE ........ 67 TELL ME ... . 69 FORGIVEN 70 LAID LOW 72 REST 74 OUR REFUGE 76 THE BATTLE OF THE LORD 78 SONGS IN THE EVENING NEAR HOME On the ocean of surging life, Afar, 'mid the billows roar, I have been in the storm and strife, But now I am near the shore. As the billows and crested waves Grow dim in the fading light. There's a gleam from the nearing shore Shines out through the falling night. There's a glimpse of remembered forms That vanished so long ago ; There's a sound of familiar tones In tlie distance, soft and low. By the sounds, that the evening breeze Is wafting across the foam. By the glint through the veiling mist, I know I am near my home. [1] ETERNAL LIFE "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others which have no hope." — 1 Thess. iv:13. Men look on the dimming eye; They list to the short'ning breath; They feel the failing pulse And say that this is death. They say it with trembling lips And eyes that are filled with tears. And see the fulfillment here Of the darkest of their fears. If the veil were rent in twain, That hideth the things unseen, And if men immortal knew What living and dying mean. As they gazed with raptured eyes On the glories God doth give, They would say of those they mourn, 'Tis they alone who live!" ti V When we pass to heaven above From this world of toil and strife ; As we feel through all our being The throb of immortal life. With almost breaking hearts Friends strive to be resigned. As they gaze with tearful eyes On the form we've left behind. [2] Would it not dry their tears ; Would it not hush their sighs, Knew they but what glorious sights Are bursting upon our eyes? What capacities for joy, What unimagined powers, What boundless fields for thought, Are now forever ours? The children of our fallen earth Know not of aught like this. This fulness of the love of God, This unutterable bliss, This perfect purity from sin, This freedom from all pain, — It is but short-sighted love Would drag us back again. Would we exchange such liberty For a prison-house and chains? The vigor of immortal health For earth's disease and pains? The rapture of eternal joy. The songs that greet our ears. For bitter pangs of human life. For earthly groans and tears? [3] O friends, lift up your bended heads, Lift up your hearts, — rejoice! We sing the glad thanksgiving song, Unite with ours your voice; Our barks shall never more be moored Again to earth's bleak shore ; But we shall welcome you ere long. To be parted nevermore. [4] NOT HERE Where eye or thought untrammelled range 'Mid scenes afar or near, The heart shrinks back opprest by change In spots most loved and dear, The very earth itself grows strange — Thou art not here. A light serene as that of yore Comes at the rosy dawn, With drops as sparkling scattered o'er The wayside path and lawn, When daylight springs to life once more. But thou art gone. With songs as glad, as brimmed with mirth. Birds soar in gay pursuit ; At twilight by the fire-lit hearth. Sweet strains my ears salute. But, 'mid the harmonies of earth. Thy lips are mute. [5] MORE THAN CONQUERORS Although my sins when viewed by God, Like crimson be, Yet to the "fountain filled with blood" I still may flee, , May there be washed from every stain And purified, May walk the way of life again Close to His side. I cried, low-kneeling in the dust, "Unclean, unclean !" But now in Him I place my trust. On Him I lean. Sinful in life and heart and thought As I have been, I know the soul by Jesus bought May conquer sin. Yea, more than conqueror in the strife I soon shall be. Soon shall enjoy eternal life. From sin set free! Though called to battle here with foes, I need not fear ; Naught can disturb my soul's repose With Jesus near. [6] Into His hands while I may live I all resign; This thought can sweetest comfort give, That He is mine. His hand shall guide and give relief Through all the way ; His love, in every bitter grief. Shall be my stay. And when the last dark hour draws near And I must die, Death cannot fill my heart with fear When He is nigh. My soul, though life in darkness ends. May rest in peace. Death is the servant Jesus sends To give release. Or, if the Lord to claim His own Return instead. No valley's deepening shade — alone My feet shall tread. No river's swelling tide shall ford. All partings past, And I shall gaze upon my Lord At last — at last! [7] THE CRADLE IS EMPTY The cradle is empty to-night Where they laid my first born son. For the years have borne him away To work that must needs be done. And he whom I thought was my own, So tiny and helpless then, Has taken his part in the fight. Is out in the world of men. The cradle is empty to-night; The daughter given by God Is taken away from my sight. Is lying under the sod. And the light of her baby eyes In visions only I see. And the smile on her little lips No longer shall comfort me. The cradle is empty to-night; The forms it once rocked to rest Have drifted away on the tide That's bearing all on its breast ; And I long for a little form In my empty arms to press. And my heart is hungry to-night For a baby's sweet caress. [8] RESURRECTION The beauties oft renewins:. That this broad earth adorn, Are shadowings and symbols Of resurrection morn. The flowers that have vanished, Upspringing, bloom again; The grasses that have withered Are green on hill and plain. The trees with leafless branches Their budding beauties bring; The streamlets that were frozen Are leaping with the spring; The forms that now are lying Beneath the mould of earth. Long years in patience waiting. Shall share in her new birth. The summons soon be sounding. That calls on them to rise In glory and in beauty. Before our raptured eyes. These longing eyes shall see them, These yearning hearts shall find Our own redeemed forever. Each blemish left behind. [9] We'll clasp the hands long vanished, We'll see the eyes long closed And meet again the dear ones In whom our love reposed. Our hearts in worship swelling, Shall join the chorus there With rapture beyond telling, With joy beyond compare! [10] READY The thread of my life may break With a sudden snap some day, Or else the untwisted strands May be slowly worn away. The path may be long or short Ere the heavenly life begin; The way may be dark or bright By which I shall enter in. But the life beyond is sure, And why should I care to know? The Lord will receive my soul When the summons comes to go. [11] THE DUAL LIFE A LIFE that is dual, concealed, We spend upon earth, A lot that is double and strange Is ours from our birth; One life that we live, that we share With spirits around. One life with the loneliest depths, Unfathomed, profound. When caught in the rush of its tide, We only can know The depths in the ocean of life, The great undertow, Abysses unfathomed, unseen. Awaiting the heart. Wherein, in its struggle and pain, It dwelleth apart. The feelings that lie far beneath The region of tears, The thoughts that are stretching beyond The cycle of years. The friend, at our side, knoweth not. Our dearest, our own ; We pass through the depths of our life, Its struggles, alone. [12] "UNDER HIS WINGS" Ps. xci:4. As the bird with drooping wing, Weary with its wandering, Flies homeward to its nest, Weary with the toil of day. And the troubles of the way, I fly to Thee for rest. As the stream, whose narrow bed. Thick with rugged rocks o'erspread. Its waters troubled sore. Finds those petty troubles past. When it pours itself at last In the ocean, evermore : So, beset by restless fears. Pressing wants and bitter tears, From longings never free. Would I leave my chosen way. Doubts and troubles ; from this day. To lose them all in Thee. Suns no more in fiercest heat My defenceless head may beat ; The clouds no more may bring Storms to chill my aching breast, While in peace, O Lord, I rest Beneath Thy sheltering wing. [13] IN MEMORIAM J. C. D. July 19, 1898. Called from our sight and our love, Out of the path thou hast trod, Into the household above, Heir of the mansions of God ! Out of the struggle and strain, Out of the midst of the race, Out of the dimness and pain. Into the light of His face. Darkness and shadows of life Lost in that radiant day ; Sorrows and burdens and strife Passed from thy spirit away. Soul, that was weary and worn. Led into infinite rest; Heart, that was wounded and torn. Healed in the joy of the blest. [14] IN MEMORIAM R. E. L. D. Sept. 23rd, 1898. Not long ago those eager feet Earth's rough ways trod, That now shall walk the golden street, Upborne hj God. The throbbing heart, the patient brow Were wrung with pain. That never care nor suffering now Shall touch again. In dark eclipse, death's shadow fell Across those eyes. That shall in light forever dwell Beyond the skies. Behind the veil — beyond our sight, O, dearest one! Yet safe in land of God's own light That needs no sun. Though anguish keen and heavy cross May be our lot, No grief can reach, nor bitter loss. That sheltered spot. [15] Beyond our call ! beyond our reach ! Through all life's days, Thou needest not that man should teach God's thoughts and ways. Amid those scenes grown heavenly-wise, While I, below. Can only lift my tear-dimmed eyes, And long to know. I, teacher once, and guide, but when Again we meet, Exalted thou on high, and then I, at thy feet. I watched thy tottering footsteps start In bygone years. And caught thee, sweet one, to my heart 'Mid smiles and tears. Wilt thou my lagging steps await When life is past, And clasp me at the heavenly gate. Swung wide at last.^^ [16] WORTH WHILE "Having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." — I Tim. iv:8. Were there no life beyond the grave, Not an immortal soul to save, 'Twere even then well worth our while To have our Father's love and smile. Were there no sins to be forgiven. No dread of hell, no hope of heaven, 'Twere worth enduring to the end To have the love of such a friend. But where there are so many lost, Where all is dark and tempest-tost, O, it is worth all else beside To hold the hand of such a guide. [17] JUDGE NOT Matt. vii:l. Are you judging of your brother when you do not even know Of his countless, hidden struggles with a fierce, relentless foe, — When it may be what repels you are but marks of many scars He has borne from unseen battles in the hard and bitter wars? As, within the block of marble, lies the form of grace concealed That is destined 'neath the sculptor's hand one day to be revealed, So beneath this outward seeming, all unlovely in your eyes. Now the image of your Master in its hidden beauty lies. When the work shall all be finished and this image brought to light, When its form of perfect beauty stands re- vealed before your sight. You will wonder in your blindness that you did not sooner know, As you gazed upon the surface, what a marvel lay below. [18] Ah, when all that warped your judgment shall forever pass away, When the motives hid in darkness shall be seen in perfect day. In the place of condemnation and the harsh and hasty word, You will find your humbled spirit with deep sympathy is stirred For the trials of the struggling soul — its brave, heroic fight — That has only through the darkest hours been ushered into light; But delay not till in safety he shall reach the other shore, When his conflicts shall be ended and his bat- tles shall be o'er. While the need of help is sorest, in his lone- liness and pain, Let him feel your hand in succor till the vict'ry he shall gain. Let him see your look of kindness, — feel the beating of your heart ; Let him know in all his struggles that you bear a brother's part. [19] Notwithstanding all his failures he's a servant of your Lord, Has received His blessed Spirit and has heark- ened to His word, Though you may not know his goodness nor his beauty till that day When blemishes and weaknesses shall forever pass away. As there lies within the chrysalis, concealed from mortal eye. With its beautiful and folded wings, the com- ing butterfly, Th' imprisoned soul with folded wings is hidden from your eyes Till it soars in light and beauty to its home be- yond the skies. [20] ON HIGH I WOULD throw down the treasures I hold For one touch of your hand, Could you lean o'er the heavenly walls, Could you reach where I stand. I would leave all the sights I behold For one look from your eyes, Could it pierce through the ether between In a loving surprise. I would give all the music of earth With its marvelous flow. Could I hear but the sound of your voice In the tones that I know. I shall hear not that voice, till above When the parted shall meet ; There are only its echoes below That are ling'ring and sweet. And your eyes, with their heavenly light. Cannot pierce through this air, That is laden with vapors of earth And the breath of despair. The heavenly walls are so high That our hands cannot meet ; And you leave but the print on my path Of your vanishing feet. [21] NEVER AGAIN The angel has entered our dwelling, He bore thee away when He sped ; Our hearts with the anguish are swelling, He left us alone with our dead. We knew not his presence when nearest. We saw not the change on thy brow ; He smote thee so suddenly, dearest. And what is there left to us now? He took thee from arms that were straining. That strove in their clasp to enfold, Unheeding our heart's bitter paining, He tore thee away from our hold. Our ears with the stillness are aching, We hear not thy step on the stair. Our hearts when it comes not are breaking. We know it shall never be there. Our eyes for a moment we're lifting. At sound of the opening door, To see thy loved form in the rifting, Its shadow let fall on the floor. But, oh, when the sore recollection Comes smiting with passionate pain. We know, spite of longing affection. Thou never shalt enter again. [22] THE ANGEL OF THE LORD Acts xii:T-10. Not in terror — not in gloom, Shall the King of terrors come With an avenging sword ; But as when by soldiers kept, In the prison Peter slept, Came the angel of the Lord. When a glory round Him shone On the prison walls of stone, He bade him "Follow me." When, as by some wondrous spell. From his hands the shackles fell. And the prisoner was free ! When the angel of the Lord Comes according to His word, To call this soul of mine. In this prison-house of clay. Glory brighter than the day Shall all around him shine. From my hands the chains shall fall, I shall hear the angel's call, "Arise and follow me," Feel, with one exultant bound. Liberty my soul has found, And I at last am free ! [ S3 ] "GIFTS DIFFERING" Rom. xii:6-8. I WANTED not to tread the path Where many feet have trod, But, if it might be so — to do Some signal work for God, To go to distant lands and there, To dying souls proclaim The love of Jesus Christ to men, The glory of His name, Or in some other way fulfill A mission great and high, A work that I might leave behind, To live, when I must die: And yet far otherwise, it seems That I must do God's will. For He has only granted me A little sphere to fill. And I must learn to do His work In His appointed way. In many little duties sent To meet me day by day, [M^ By life of lowly sacrifice, My faith in Jesus prove, And manifest that I am His By daily deeds of love. And yet it is God's work as well In the obscurest spot, As in the hard-fought battle-field. Though men may know it not. The Lord doth know and recognize His humblest servant's claim; He will not slight the smallest deed That's done in Jesus' name, And I would learn, submissively, To fight and watch and pray. And do the work appointed me In God's own chosen way. [2o] BEYOND THE SHADOWS When we pass beyond the shadows — when we walk the golden street, As we look back o'er the pathway which we trod with weary feet, O, how petty'll seem its trials and how small its cares appear, When the mists have all been lifted and the atmosphere is clear. There'll be praises for the thwarted plans and disappointments then When we learn to know God's purpose that was once beyond our ken. How the pathway wrapped in shadow has but brought us to the light. And the victor's crown rewarded for the hard and bitter fight, Through the perils and temptations in the way where we have passed. How the hand of God was guiding but to bring us safe at last, Where has died the din of battle 'mid the burst of heavenly song. And the pilgrimage is ended that to us had seemed so long. [26] BEREFT I DRANK the cup's last bitter dregs, Thy hand did fill. Look Thou upon my smitten heart, Its longings still, And let me learn to kiss the hand That curbs my will. The closest ties are cut in twain By severing knife, That unimpeded I might pass Amid the strife. And so, in warfare, win at last The crown of life. With hands detached and heart bereft. From shackles free. An instrument in Thy blest hands Henceforth to be. To lead despairing, wandering souls To hope and Thee. From all that hides Thy blessed face. My heart would turn, 'Mid deepest grief and keenest pain. Thy lessons learn. And as in sunlight, so in storm. Thy love discern. [27] ENTERED IN Eccles. xii:6-7. When the sorrows and the troubles of life shall all be o'er ; When the shadows lie behind and the day-dawn lies before ; When farewells all are spoken; when is loosed the silver cord, The golden bowl is broken, where life's precious gifts were stored. The pitcher at the fountain's brim no more shall be refilled ; The wheel has ceased its turning and forever more is stilled ; The friends who have been watching shall be gathered round the bed; With weeping eyes they're gazing as they whis- per, "She is dead." The ear, grown unresponsive to each familiar sound. To melody is wakened, that is floating all around From angels who are hov'ring, with their sing- ing soft and low To the soul they are uplifting in the path that it must go. [28] The eye, in darkness closing on each long ac- customed sight, Is opened on the dawning of a strange and heavenly light : The body, soul-deserted, has become a lifeless clod: Th' immortal soul has entered in the Paradise of God. [29] "LOOKING UNTO JESUS" Heb. xii'S. From every foe and every snare, From all the weariness and care, That oftentimes is hard to bear, Jesus, I look to Thee. I know that it will all be brief. That even now there is relief. And so, away from all my grief, Jesus, I look to Thee. From all of weakness that has been, From every fault and every sin, From all that is so dark within, Jesus, I look to Thee. O, great and pressing is my need ! I have no word or thought or deed ; I have no righteousness to plead ; Jesus, I look to Thee. Earth's holy things are so impure; Its steadfast things are so unsure; But, knowing that Thou wilt endure, .Jesus, I look to Thee. [30] Sin lays its hand on all most dear; There are none good, none holy here ; In Thee alone no spots appear: Jesus, I look to Thee. When Life is ebbing fast away, When earthly hopes shall all decay, Then, on my last, my dying day, Jesus, I'd look to Thee. When in the world of joy serene. With no dark clouds to come between, But, seeing there as I am seen, Jesus, I'll look to Thee. [SI] GOD'S WILL "Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right ?"- Gen. xviii:25. My lips may smile — my eyes may weep, May watch in dread or close in sleep ; These hands may toil or fold in rest ; Whichever way, God's will is best. My path may blossom like the rose. Or lie where thorn and briar grows. Be even, low, or rough and steep. Yet God each way doth guard and keep. The light may shine upon my way. Or skies be low'ring, cold and grey ; Yet He, who knows and loves us each, Knows best the lessons He would teach. Though clasped my dearest to my heart. Or torn in agony apart. Yet He who hides the vanished face, Himself can take the vacant place. [32] NEAR JESUS I WANT to live near Jesus And never go astray, To feel that I am growing More like Him day by day, That I am always laying My treasure up above, And gaining more the spirit Of gentleness and love. Gaining in zeal and earnestness My mission to fulfill. Finding it my meat and drink To do my Father's will. To follow in His footsteps. Who never turned aside From the path that leads to heaven. Though often sorely tried. O that in His humility My spirit may be clad. That I may have the patience My suffering Saviour had, A heart more disengaged From earth and earthly things, Which in life's varied trials To Jesus simply clings. [33] O I shall live near Jesus And never go astray. And each dark, defiling stain Shall soon be washed away. I'll bear my Master's image And see Him face to face. Then Earth shall lose the power Its brightness to deface. [34] "BOUGHT WITH A PRICE" I Cor. vi:20. My sins in dark succession rise Before my tortured mind ; I search in vain through all my life One ray of hope to find. I look above — 'tis but to meet The frown of the most High, And hear His lips pronounce my doom, "The soul that sins shall die." I look beyond and shrink aghast Back from the fearful view ; Then bowed in agony of soul Cry out, "What shall I do .?" How can I bear God's fearful wrath.'' O whither shall I flee? I cannot find a hiding-place. Is there no hope for me? Be still, my soul, and listen now; A voice is calling thee ; It tells me of a refuge made In Him who died for me. [35] There was no eye to pity me, No other arm to save When Jesus looked upon my soul, His life for mine He gave. He gently stilled my every fear, And quelled all my alarms. Forgave His wandering, guilty child. Received me in His arms. And trustfully and hopefully I can look up to heaven; Far different words now greet my ear, "Thy sins are all forgiven." I look beyond and, oh, how fair The scene which now I see, A home that from all sin and care Forever shall be free. Let all the praises be to Him, Who this great change has wrought; 'Twas Jesus paid the fearful price At which my peace was bought. [33] AND THEN Job. iii:17. The hands that strive and strain. The eyes that watch and weep, The soul distraught with pain, And then — the tranquil sleep. The noise of street and mart. The busy toil and quest. The strain of nerve and heart, And then — the quiet rest. The sounds and sights of men. The tramping footsteps tread, The crowds that throng, and then,- A place among the dead. The hungry want, the needs. The quenchless thirst for love. The heart that breaks and bleeds, And then — the life above. [37] AT PEACE ' Heb. xii:ll. The shades of night are gathering o'er The brightness of my day ; Yet, still, amid the thickening gloom, I lift my heart and say, "I thank Thee for each joy that Thou Hast taken. Lord, away." The weakness of the flesh is here. And gathering tears will start ; I cannot always keep them back. But peace is in my heart ; Thy love, whatever else betide. Shall nevermore depart. Then let these trials still abide Until their work is wrought. I thank Thee for the lessons sweet They even now have taught. The more submissive love to Thee, The nearness they have brought. They close themselves about my way Until I seem to stand Apart from earth — ^alone with Thee In some untrodden land. And gaze into Thine unveiled face. And clasp Thine outstretched hand. [38] I would forego all earthly joys, Its pleasures and its ease, And gladly bear its pain and woe For moments such as these, In which I taste the bliss on high, And learn heaven's mysteries. [39] THE GREAT SHEPHERD The great Shepherd is so tender, Such a wise and strong defender Of those who're weak. He, the children's kindest friend, Promises that He will send Strength to last unto the end To all who seek. Jesus came down from above. In His great, exceeding love. Himself has given. Little footsteps Jesus heeds. Cares for all their smallest needs. And for little children pleads. Up in heaven. With a strong and loving arm. Shields with care from every harm, Each little one. Guides them, with His own kind hand, To that shining, cherub band Dwelling in the heavenly land, Beyond the sun. [4^0] Christ the Lord is placing now, Round about each childish brow, A crown of light. No more sorrow, no more pain, E'er shall darken them again. Pure from every earthly stain With glory bright. [41] THE VOICE OF GOD John iv:35. The harvest fields are whitening — The reapers, where are they? The voice of God is calling No longer to delay. O Christian, will you tarry, O Christian, can you stay And know that men are selling Immortal souls away? The open door's before you, Then pass not lightly by, For when the Lord shall question O what will you reply? Be earnest then in labor: Be working while 'tis day; The time draws nearer swiftly When you must pass away. Though night may gather round you, Look to the coming dawn ; Look to the Star of morning And struggle bravely on. [4a] Then 'mid that throng so holy, Around the great white throne, You'll reap in joy eternal The harvest you have sown. [43] NOW "Behold now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation." — 2 Cor. vi:2. The word of God is warning, Behold the time is now ; Delay not till the shadow Of death is on your brow. When life and strength are failing, The eye is growing dim, O, it is late in darkness To grope your way to Him, When days are spent in pleasure And night's consumed in sin. To call on Him at midnight To rise and let you in. With lamp unlit and empty. To knock upon the gate. And hear the Bridegroom calling To those without, "Too late." [44] COME TO JESUS Little children, come to Jesus, He will be your guide and friend ; Others may neglect and leave you; Jesus loveth to the end. Bring Him all your want and weakness, Every childish pain and grief, Come to Him and He will comfort ; He alone can give relief. Give you strength for every trial. Light to guide your little feet To that bright and heavenly mansion Where your Saviour waits to greet. His almighty arm is round you. Shielding you from every ill, Little children, look to Jesus, Try to do His gracious will. That your lights may burn so brightly, Little rushlights though they be, Bringing praise and glory to Him, Dwelling in Eternity. [45] UNCHANGEABLE "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to-day and for- ever." — Heb. xiii:8. O TRUST to His love; for His love is the same That bore for us scourging and mocking and shame, The love that was tempted and troubled and tried, That brought Him to earth where He suffered and died. The sinful and outcast from guilt He set free, And thinkest Thou then He will do less for thee ? Has Jesus, thy Saviour, no care for thy pain, And must thou in darkness and sorrow remain? Why canst thou not hope His compassion to find? Is Jesus less loving, less tender and kind Than when He the penitent woman forgave. And, burdened, stood weeping at Lazarus grave ? Thou mayest have darkly dishonored His name, But Jesus thy Lord is forever the same. The sinfulness even in which thou didst live Will show thee how freely can Jesus forgive. [46] Thy faith may be faint and thy love burning dim, O come in thy coldness and draw near to Him ! Lift up to thy Saviour thy spirit in prayer ; No coldness to thee shalt thou ever find there. His mercy is boundless ! His mercy is free ! He died ; he is living, poor wanderer, for thee. Dishonor Him not by a doubt or a fear ; 'Tis Jesus hath called thee, oh come and draw near. Thy God to His promise is faithful and true; His love in thy heart shall be kindled anew ; His grace unto thee will freely bestow ; Thy sins though like crimson be whiter than snow. [47] THE GOOD SHEPHERD John X. Faint not, little flock, Your Shepherd is near; With Him to defend, You've nothing to fear. The weakest of all Protection may claim; For each of His sheep, He calleth by name. Go forth on your way With doubtings no more, Through pathways unknown, He goeth before. Though dangers surround. You still may rejoice, 'Tis Jesus that calls ; His sheep know the voice. The pasture is open, For He is the door. Come in, little flock. And hunger no more. Although you should be By troubles opprest. Still, under His care. You safely may rest. [48] When cometh the thief To steal and to kill, The Guard of the fold Defendeth you still. He laid down His life, Was willing to die. Be fearful no more While Jesus is nigh. No lowliest one Unheeded can fall; He knoweth His sheep. Is known of them all. Then fear not the foes You meet by the way; He that doth keep you Is greater than they. [49] LITTLE CHILDREN Little children, do you know Jesus Christ has loved you so That He came to earth and died? Jesus Christ was crucified. Little children, do you care For the grief He had to bear, For the sorrow and the woe That He suffered here below? Little children, will you pray To our Father every day, Will you ask that He will make You, all pure, for Jesus sake? Little children, will you raise Hearts and voices in His praise? Only think what He has done. Giving His beloved Son. [50] SATISFIED "I shall be satisfied, when I, awake with Thy likeness." -Ps. xvii:15. Safe on the other shore, Beyond the swelling tide, With pangs and partings o'er, I shall be satisfied. Among the ransomed throng, — The saved and glorified, Where death invades no more I shall be satisfied. Beside the living stream, — The Lamb Himself my guide,^ — Beside the tree of life, I shall be satisfied. They suffer not, nor sin. Who in that land abide. They hunger not, nor thirst, I shall be satisfied. When in Thy likeness. Lord, When near Thy blessed side, I wake to dwell with Thee, I shall be satisfied. [51] TRUSTING "Confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth." — Heb. xi:13. We are travelling on through the weary night, Awaiting the dawn of heavenly light. Though dangers surround wherever we be, O may we be found still trusting in Thee. Enduring the cross and patient in pain. Accounting each loss for Thy sake a gain. Close, close to Thy side forever we'd be, O may we abide, still trusting in Thee. Confessing our weakness, help us to bear. In patience and meekness, our sorrow and care. From trouble and grief, disheartened we'd flee, Yet finding relief while trusting in Thee. Owning our Father's hand, knowing 'tis best; So in this weary land, finding our rest, When of all else bereft, darkness we see. Still is this refuge left, trusting in Thee. When one we love departs ; in that dark hour. E'en in our stricken hearts, feeling its power; Though round our great rock should beat the wild sea. We're kept from its shock while trusting in Thee. [52] So through this life we ever depend For strength in the strife on Thee, our great Friend, When death's drawing nigh and earthly hopes flee. So calmly we'd die, still trusting in Thee. [53] JESUS WEPT John xi:35. We well may think that Jesus wept, Not only o'er the one who slept, Not only for the sisters twain, For He could cure their grief again. But looking on to future years He saw the agony and tears. He saw the burdens to be borne. The human hearts with anguish torn. He saw, with sore temptations tried, The ones He loved, for whom He died ; In sympathy for sorrow then. He wept o'er all the sons of men. And just the same as ever now. While we before His footstool bow, With more than human heart to feel, With power divine to bless and heal. Sufferer, bring Him all your grief, 'Tis He alone can give relief. Remember, 'mid vour doubts and fears, He, too, has trod the vale of tears. [54] FREED When life below shall end Its heritage of pain In parting throes that rend Body and soul in twain. When freed at last we rise To heavenly worlds above, And open wondering eyes On realms of light and love, Within that clime afar. Of cloudless, endless day. The tears that blind our eyes Shall all be wiped away. The steep and rugged path. Our tired feet have trod. Shall end its darkened way Within the light of God. His power shall set us free From sickness, pain and sin. Open the gates of heaven, Open to let us in. These souls in conflict wrung With agony untold. Shall pass the gates of pearl. Shall walk the streets of gold. [55] We'll meet our absent Lord, The Lord of life and grace, We'll clasp His pierced feet, We'll see His blessed face, These exiles, who are swayed Before life's bitter blast. Be folded to His breast When heaven is ours at last. Before His welcoming smile, All sorrows flee away. As flee the shades of night Before the dawning day. [56] MY PORTION Rom. viii:39. When the course has been finished, the race has been run, When the fight has been fought and the victory won. With a spirit rejoicing in hope and in faith, I would peacefully wait for the angel of death. When my fears are all banished, of death and the grave. While I lean upon Him who is mighty to save, As an exile no more, or a stranger to roam, To be safe from all danger and trouble at home. When the trials of life, and its cares shall all cease. And the tempest-tost soul be forever at peace. When the tears, and the pain, and the fears shall be o'er, When the sorrows and sins are remembered no more, When the darkness and doubts shall have all passed away. In the light of unending and radiant day. When have vanished the mists that were dim- ming my sight. And I gaze on His face in that Heavenly light, [57] I shall lay down the cross I have carried so long, I shall join in the joyful, victorious song; From the life of my Saviour no power can sever, For His love shall be mine, my portion forever. [68] SAFE Rom. viii:37, 38, 39. I KNOW the conflicts waiting me Are perilous and long; I know the struggle there will be When battling with the wrong, And yet forever near my side Is One whose arm is strong. That Being dark whose power is bent On my eternal fall, With all his hosts in earth and hell, My soul cannot appall; For I am His whose boundless love Is mightier than them all. Shall peril, sword or every ill That men most fear to see, Divide me from the deathless love Of Him who died for me? No, for my soul, in all these things Shall more than conqueror be. I know that there will come a time When tears my sight shall dim. The only song my lips can sing Will be a farewell hymn. And yet, nor life, nor death, has power To part my soul from Him. [59] And when at last the call shall come, To cross through death's dark river, I know full well the current strong. This fragile bark must shiver. And yet, I know, through faith in Him, That I am safe forever. [60] GRACE TO HELP Heb. iv:16. All rugged and dark is the way we have trod ; We flee to Thy footstool for comfort, O God. 'Tis here, only here, that our refuge we find, And leave earthly sorrows and troubles behind. With trials before us, temptations around, 'Tis here that our courage to face them is found. Refreshed by Thy presence, we go to the fight : Our souls are upheld by omnipotent might. In spite of our weakness, we conquer each foe; For him, who is God-sustained, what shall o'er- throw? Though hosts may encompass and foes may assail. The strength we are leaning on never shall fail. With the gospel of peace our feet have been shod. And we are all clothed in the armor of God: The foes that are fiercest our hearts can with- stand. By trust in the Lord, by the might of His hand; [61] Not only such foes are we called on to meet, But those which are harder for us to defeat ; The languor and weariness, doubts that arise. The cloud that at times hides Christ from our eyes. But reaching far down, in compassionate care. The hand of Jehovah, in answer to prayer. Makes a rift in this cloud that hangs like a screen His reconciled face and our spirits between. Through which heavenly light and a gladness divine Again on our spirits, once darkened, shall shine. Rejoicing in light of Immanuel's face, Receiving from Him new strength for the race, \ t We see what was veiled from our vision before; Our Saviour with unclouded faith we adore. Thus looking to Jesus with patience we'd run The race set before us, till heaven be won. When safely arrived on that glorious shore Where fighting and weeping shall come never- more, With all of the saved, in that home of the blest. Our spirits shall be there forever at rest. [6S] But while on this earth, with its clouds, we re- main, In the midst of temptation and trouble and pain, In all times of trial, of sorrow and care. We still have the blessing, the comfort, of prayer. [63] THE NAME OF JESUS Acts iv:12. When the weight of sin is grievous, Our hearts are sore oppressed, It is in the name of Jesus We find our sweetest rest, The name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Dearer than all beside To those who learn to know His love And trust in Him who died. There is a brightness in His name Which grief may never dim ; It speaks to us of all the joy That first we found in Him. When thought of sins against the Lord Would fill our souls with fear, In Jesus' name with humble trust To Him we may draw near. We know that His dear name hath power To bring us all we need, And we believe His precious blood From sin our souls hath freed. [64] QUESTIONS Have I lived as God's dear child, Kept my garments undefiled, Lived as one redeemed by blood, As the Saviour's follower should? Have I fought against each sin. Looked to Him the fight to win. Striven all evil to subdue. Kept the Saviour aye in view? Have I felt that there was naught That could save in all I wrought, Felt myself of power bereft. All the work to Jesus left? [65] THE RECOMPENSE Jesus, we come to Thee, In the midst of our grief. To our strong rock we flee : Refuge and solace be, And give us relief. Unto Thee we would cry, O strength of the weak! On the promise rely Of Thine aid from on high, Whenever we seek. We are weary, O Lord, Our hearts are opprest; For the way we have trod Is a toilsome road ; In Thee is our rest. We are travelling now : Soon troubles will end: Son of God, teach us how Our tried spirits to bow. Our Saviour and Friend! Let us never forget. Though hearts should be riven. For all trials we've met. Thou hast said, there will yet Be recompense given. [66] AT LAZARUS' GRAVE "For we have not an high-priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities."— Heb. iv:15. I LOVE to think that once with tears Our Saviour's eyes were dim. The weight of human grief and pain Bore heavily on Him. When standing near the resting-place Where one He cared for slept, What comfort in the words we find That tell us, "Jesus wept." Aye, Jesus Christ, our blessed Lord, Whose nature changes never. Who is the same that He was then, Forever and forever! Who bends e'en now, from heaven, to hear The feeblest cry of pain, And gently lifts the bruised reed To rest on Him again. I bring Him all my pain and grief, I know that He can feel; His heart's a well of tenderness ; His touch has power to heal. Though His perfections all divine So gloriously blend. Yet still in Him I ever find A sympathizing friend! [67] To Him I come when sorrowing, On Him I cast my care, Who knows full well the heavy weight Of burdens that we bear; Who knows full well, for He has felt The bitterness of grief, And bids the heavy-laden come That He may give relief. [68] TELL ME M. B.'s dying words: "Talk to me of Jesus." TALK to me of Jesus Christ, Of how He waits to bless, Repeat again His gracious name, "The Lord our Righteousness." For earthly sounds are dying now. And earthly sights grow dim; 1 go to be with Christ the Lord, And I would hear of Him. O, friends, with all your love to me, You have not power to save; You could not give me peace in death. Or victory o'er the grave. Thank God for an almighty arm. Outstretched from heaven above, On which I know my help is laid By Him whose name is love. O, tell me how the blessed Lord At every hour is nigh. And I, rejoicing in His strength. Will no more fear to die. Through all the pain of parting here. Look joyfully away. My sun is setting darkly now, To rise in endless day. [69] FORGIVEN My sins are forgiven And Jesus has riven The chains that are binding me down. He granted release, Has given me peace, And promised an unfading crown. While hearing His voice, I still can rejoice. Though tempests are raging without. For while He is near, I cannot know fear, Or even a shadow of doubt. With Him on my side. Whatever betide, I know it will be for the best, And calmly lie still. Awaiting His will, Content on His promise to rest. His omnipotent arm Protects me from harm. His love my strong refuge shall be. When foes shall assail They cannot prevail. For Jesus is fighting for me. [70] His power divine, And love will be mine When the valley of death I shall tread. To Jesus, my friend. My soul shall ascend When my body is laid with the dead. [71] LAID LOW In sleep that has no breaking, That knows no earthly waking, My love lies low, My earthly life benumbing, Its joy and hope succumbing Beneath the blow. No sound to break the stillness, To dissipate the chillness. No coming breath ; No quick response in meeting. No word of love in greeting, But only — death. The hands whose touch has thrilled me. The eyes whose glance has filled me With joy untold; The arms that once did hold me. With rapturous joy enfold me, Are still and cold. The brain whose rare creations, The heart whose warm pulsations Have thrilled my own. The brow with thought expanding. The form in power commanding Are lying prone. [72] The darkness stretching o'er me, An open grave before me Where hopes lie slain, By densest shades surrounded. Its deepest depths unsounded Of grief and pain. Beyond this chasm yawning There gleams another dawning, A fairer day, Where lives no more can sever. My love shall be forever My own for aye. [73] REST Matt. xi:28. O WHEN with griefs and cares opprest, My heart is yearning after rest, 'Tis comfort then, exceeding sweet. To cast myself at Jesus' feet, When life is dark and hope is dim, To feel I've sympathy from Him, To know, though I am weak and frail. There is a strength that will not fail; Though careless earthly friends may prove, To be assured of Jesus' love. To go to Him with all my grief. And find a quick and sure relief. My weary heart, with grief opprest. Still finds in Jesus perfect rest ; And, when the storms of passion roll In surging billows o'er my soul. He bids the storm and whirlwind cease ; The troubled waters are at peace. He's here to brighten all my joy; When doubts assail — when cares annoy, He shields with His protecting hand. While dwelling in this troublous land. This rock doth restful shadow give, And waters that my soul may live. [74] When trials come, as come thej must, 'Tis sweet to feel a perfect trust. And, if such joy on earth is given. What joy! — what bliss! are mine in heaven, When Christ the Lord shall bid me come To enter my eternal home. [75] OUR REFUGE Our trials and troubles we j oyfully meet ; The Rock of all Ages is under our feet ; The winds wail around us, the tempests may lower, The Lord is our refuge — the Lord is our tower. In all tribulation, in all times of pain The strength of His arm does our courage sus- tain; We know He is guiding us with His own hand And leading us on to a happier land. The road may be rough and the way may be long, He leads us through sorrow, — He will not lead wrong. Though troubles be sent us, though trials be given, We still may rejoice, for the end will be heaven. When even on earth. He shall grant us bright days We'd ever be filled with thanksgiving and praise. When light on our pathway grows darkened and dim, Still leaning on Jesus — still trusting in Him. [76] So calmly we'd pass through our life with its woes, Amid all disturbance, thus finding repose, No trembling in weakness — no shrinking in fear, Our faith never failing while Jesus is near. [77] THE BATTLE OF THE LORD I Sam. XXV :28. Eight on, fight on, Courageously now, The conqueror's crown Shall circle your brow. Though foes may be fierce. Though dangers may throng, Your faith may be weak, Yet Jesus is strong. Fight on, fight on. Resist unto blood. Betray not to foes. The cause of your God. The promise is sure. To him shall be given. The conqueror's crown. Who has faithfully striven. Fight on, fight on. Till foes are all dead. Fear not to follow Where Jesus has led. Be dauntless and brave ; Your captain is by; With Him in the front. You learn how to die. [T8] Fight on, fight on, The last stroke is made. Though death's drawing near. You are not afraid. The One who was near, When fighting your foes, Bends over you now. Life draws to its close. Fight on, fight on, One enemy more. His power is vanquished ; The conflict is o'er; No doubt clouds your eye, No fear fills your breast, As, quiet and calm. You go to your rest. [79] OEC 28 1911 One copy del. to Cat. Div. DEC 2d 1911 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS liiliillililiiiiliiiliiiiiiiillllliL 015 907 137 6 ^