I see a lost creation!
I hear its supplication-
In groaning degradation
Through man, its fallen head!

I see man's sinful madness!
I hear his shift at gladness-
Till scourged in gloom and sadness
To doom among the dead!

I see a Saviour seeking!
I hear Him sweetly speaking
In love to sinners-reeking
With man's depravity!

I see man, God disowning!
I hear my Saviour groaning-
In cursed death atoning
For man, upon the tree!

I see God's love down-reaching!
I hear in many a preaching
His tender tones beseeching-
Man's enmity to span!

I see One here sojourning!
I hear Love's accents, mourning
As-brooding, grieving, yearning-
God's Spirit strives with man!

I see the few believing!
I hear them-praises weaving
With all their tears of grieving:
Heart-sick for home above!

I see the many doubting!
I hear them, scoffing, scouting-
Embracing sin, and flouting
The gentle call of Love!

I see the new creation!
I hear saints' adoration-
Creation's celebration
Of God, and Christ its Head!
I see a scene of sadness!
I hear no note of gladness-
Where conscience stings to madness
The ever-dying dead!

F. A.