  By PHEBE A. HOLDER. O’er the city’s restless surges, Heaving like the ocean tide, Steals the night with hush of silence, And the waves of toil subside. Noiseless drops the soft, dark curtain, While the mighty throbbings cease, Starry eyes watch o’er the city Sleeping in the depths of peace. Comes the morning fair and radiant, Bathed in sunshine—breathing balm, Heaven’s blue dome a benediction, With its pure, unspotted calm, Like Jerusalem, the golden, Coming down to earth from heaven, Clad in robes of bridal beauty Seems this morn the Lord has given. As I tread the streets, still peaceful, Turning to the house of God, Drinking in this wondrous beauty, And this glory of the Lord, Through the crystal air of morning Ring the bells with mellow chime, In a strain of sweetest music, Hallowed as the Sabbath time. Like the songs I heard in childhood, Or a sainted mother’s psalm, Fell those chimes upon my spirit With a holy, restful calm. Like the tones of angel voices, Sounding from seraphic choir, Seemed this call our God to worship In this holy house of prayer. Still entranced I paused to listen To the chiming, silvery, clear— When the thrilling strain had ended Yet I waited—fixed to hear; While upon my listening spirit Came a sense unfelt before, Of our Lord’s most precious blessing In the Sabbath’s holy power. Coming like a guest from heaven To our earthly, toil-worn lives, A sweet influence, pure, uplifting, To our struggling souls it gives. Pointing with prophetic finger To the perfect Sabbath rest In the fair, Celestial City Of the sainted and the blest,— As with angel voice it calls us, Now to seek that home of light Where the gates of pearl shall open To the pure with garments white. Day beloved! thy blessed service In the temple of our God, Draws us nearer—ever nearer, To our glorious, risen Lord. Still that soft and mellow cadence Lingers like a sacred charm, Resting on my waiting spirit With a touch of heavenly calm. Like a sweet-toned voice still calling From our home that is to be, While from out its unseen glory Floats celestial harmony. decorative line |
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