A Glance from heav’n, with sweet effect, Sometimes my pensive spirit cheers; But, ere 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. | |