Now Cometh the Light

Together in Thy light, O God resplendent,
Do we see light!
The people that walked in darkness—
Their hope how long deferred!—
While biting sin still troopeth at their heel,
Upon them, like clear heat in sunshine,
Shall dwell the light.
With veil on the uncovered head,
With glory in place of rent apparel,
Wilt Thou clothe them; the light, once sown, make manifest
Again, as Thou hast said: “Let there be light, And there was light. ”
Thy banner, over them whose knees stumble,
Upraise, and clear the way before them By an Angel; and Thou wilt bless
The seed of the upright, what time Thou makest light’
Of them that rebel against the light.
While he moaneth like a servant panting after the shade,
Do Thou lay the majesty of Thy salvation upon him;
And cry; "How long, O sluggard,
Wilt thou sleep in the house of darkness?
Arise, shine!
Now cometh the light.’’
“Grace, grace,” proclaim; and set up two rows Of olive trees for kindling the lights,
And they shall serve for lamps—
Their oil within the shrine of God resplendent, For the Light!