So near the shore, I strain my ear
To catch the accents sweet
Of one dear voice I long to hear
And hope ere long to greet.
That voice more sweet indeed to me
Than anything of earth could be.

So near the shore, I strain the eye
For e'en a distant sight
Of one Face which shall welcome me
With grace and glory bright.
A Face once marred ; but glorious now –
Not thorns, but victory, on His brow.

So near the shore that ne'er was touched
By sorrow, death, or sin ;
So near the place His love prepared,
His death for me did win :
So near my loved eternal home,
From whence I look for Him to come.

So near the real, so near the true,
My heart's eternal rest,
Of which the sweetest joys of earth
Are shadowy forms at best.
O blessed Lord, Thou art to me
The haven of reality.

Earth's shadows pass before mine eyes,
But Thou art e'er the same ;
Thy promises are all my hope,
I glory in Thy name.
I've waited long, am waiting still,
The purpose of Thy holy will.

Possess my heart still more and more,
And hold it captive, Lord;
And brighten every step I take
With light from Thy blest Word,
Until I reach the homeland bright,
With no more sea, and no more night!

H. McD.
Feb, 1st. to R. H., who departed to be with Christ Feb. 7th, 94 years old