Classic Poem

Out of the darkness, out of the depths
I called to Thee, who art the God of Light
" Stretch out, stretch out Thy helping hand
And save me from the darkness of the night. "

" Reveal Thyself a flame, a spark;
It matters not — a token that shall say
That Thou art somewhere, that my soul
Amidst Life's wilderness is not astray. "

In darkness and in loneliness
In anguished silence I suffered day and night,
Whilst Thou, wrapped round in cloud and mist,
Thy countenance didst cover from my sight.

And yet my faith in Thee was strong,
And trusting Thee I comforted my mind,
And murmured: " Surely, from Thy throne,
Thou gazest down at me and art not blind. "

And in the Depths and in the Dark
Thy holy name is often on my tongue
Yet slowly, slowly in my mind
The serpent-teeth of Doubt have sprung.

A Protest gnaws within my heart ...
Upon my fainting lips the prayer dies,
" O, God, if me Thou see'st and hear'st,
Come forth, send down a token from the skies! "