Page:The Christian Year 1887.djvu/105

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Three solemn parts together twine In harmony's mysterious line; Three solemn aisles approach the shrine:

Yet all are One—together all, In thoughts that awe but not appal, Teach the adoring heart to fall.

Within these walls each fluttering guest Is gently lured to one safe nest - Without, 'tis moaning and unrest.

The busy world a thousand ways Is hurrying by, nor ever stays To catch a note of Thy dear praise.

Why tarries not her chariot wheel, That o'er her with no vain appeal One gust of heavenly song might steal?

Alas! for her Thy opening flowers Unheeded breathe to summer showers, Unheard the music of Thy bowers.

What echoes from the sacred dome The selfish spirit may o'ercome That will not hear of love or home!

The heart that scorned a father's care, How can it rise in filial prayer? How an all-seeing Guardian bear?

Or how shall envious brethren own A Brother on the eternal throne, Their Father's joy, their hops alone?

How shall Thy Spirit's gracious wile The sullen brow of gloom beguile, That frowns on sweet Affection's smile?

Eternal One, Almighty Trine! (Since Thou art ours, and we are Thine,) By all Thy love did once resign,

By all the grace Thy heavens still hide, We pray Thee, keep us at Thy side, Creator, Saviour, strengthening Guide!