195   O FOR THAT FLAME




[V1]


O for that flame of living fire,
Which shone so bright in saints of old;
Which bade their souls to heaven aspire,
Calm in distress, in danger bold!

[V2]
Where is that spirit, Lord, which dwelt,
In Abram’s breast, and sealed him Thine?
Which made Paul’s heart with sorrow melt,
And glow with energy divine?

[V3]
That spirit which from age to age,
Proclaimed Thy love, and taught Thy ways?
Brightened Isaiah’s vivid page,
And breathed in David’s hallowed lays?

[V4]
Is not Thy grace as mighty now,
As when Elijah felt its power?
When glory beamed from Moses’ brow,
Or Job endured the trying hour?

[V5]
Remember, Lord, the ancient days;
Renew Thy work, Thy grace restore;
And while to Thee our hearts we raise,
On us Thy holy Spirit pour.