“As birds flying, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem.”

Isaiah xxxi. 5.

WHEN the light had vanquished darkness and Creation’s hymn was voiced,

Lit as God’s celestial beacons all the Morning stars rejoiced,

Each assigned his place and splendour, each appointed, great or small,

Heralds to declare the glory of the greatest Light of all.

So they drew man’s aching spirit, yearning for a strength renewed,

Sang of freedom all perfected in the highest servitude,

Flared their path a radiant highway, reft of earthly bolts and bars,

Mounting up with wings as eagles, some went forth to seek the stars.

Then they learned, through tribulation, truths that all their fathers knew,

He who plans the world’s salvation saves by many or by few,

Saw again the wondrous vision sent of old to Israel’s seer,

Hosts of fiery horsemen round them, knew the Lord of hosts was near.

Speeding on the wings of morning heard the promise day and night,

Who has faith for shield and buckler puts a thousand foes to flight,

On their brethren’s prayers uplifted, who, on earth, with high intent,

Sought to found a Holy City, their abiding monument.

Shrine of those who heard the trumpets sounding on the farther shore,

Where in purest gold are graven names that live for evermore;

Gracious wings outstretched in healing, spread for those who heard the call

Sought the stars and in His glory found the greatest Light of all.

Written for the tune of Hymns A. & M., No. 436 — second tune, “Deerhurst”;
“Hark! the sound of holy voices, etc.”