Beauty for Ashes

Look up into the glory of the western sky
As slow declines the sun, and wraps in shade
Earth’s fleeting day! Her beauty and her boast
In ashes lie, in weeds of woe arrayed.
LOOK UP!

Look up, my soul! and, oh, find sure relief!
The petty trials that beset the mind,
The sense of outraged faith, the bitter loss,
Leave all their worry, pain, and tears behind.
LOOK UP!

Look up! the silent stars sweet solace bring;
Earth’s little hour forgotten, sinks from sight.
Oft in such vision, bright, celestial,
Darkness of mind and soul take sudden flight.
LOOK UP!

Look up! for in those far ethereal isles
Of beauty unexcelled, radiant and blest,
Is seen a type of glories yet withheld,
Foretaste of glories yet untold, of peace and rest
LOOK UP !

Look up! and, lo, the adoring soul takes wings!
And seems to gaze upon her matchless King
So long desired. O blest imagination this,
From glory unto glory life transfiguring!
LOOK UP!

Look up! for your redemption draweth near;
His glorious coming tints the eastern sky.
Soon every weary, aching heart He’ll bless.
And every tear He’ll dry.
LOOK UP !