John Newton & William Cowper · 226 of 356
84. A Glance from heav’n, with sweet effect
Hymn 84
A Glance from heav’n, with sweet effect, Sometimes my pensive spirit cheers; But, I can my thoughts collect, As suddenly it disappears.
So lightning in the gloom of night, Affords a momentary day; Disclosing objects full in sight, Which soon as seen, are snatched away.
Ah! what avail these pleasing scenes! They do but aggravate my pain; While darkness quickly intervenes, And swallows up my joys again.
But shall I murmur at relief? Though short, it was a precious view; Sent to control my unbelief, And prove that what I read is true.
The lightning’s flash did not create The op’ning prospect it revealed; But only showed the real state Of what the darkness had concealed.
Just so, we by a glimpse discern The glorious things within the veil; That when in darkness, we may learn To live by faith, till light prevail.
The Lord’s great day will soon advance, Dispersing all the shades of night; Then we no more shall need a glance, But see by an eternal Light.