Through earth's deepening gloom and darkness
Shines for us a cheering ray,
And it makes the longing greater
For His bright appearing day.

Long the heavens have now retained Him;
Strain we oft our wistful eyes:
"Hope deferred" makes sick hearts weary,
Till our sun's glad beams arise.

Blessed hope!-the dawn is nearing
Of that cloudless morning's light,
When together, gathered round Him,
We shall bear His image bright.

Sigh we for our absent bridegroom ;
Scattered Israel needs their king;
Groans indeed the whole creation
For the long-predicted spring.