Classic Poem

I know thou art not far,
My God, from me; yon star
Speaks of thy nearness, and its rays
Fall on me like thy touch. Oh raise
These eyes of mine
To see thy face, even thine,
My Father and my God!

Thou speakest, and I hear!
What gracious heavenly cheer
Is in thy gentle speech, my God!
How it lifts off the heavy load
Which bows my weary head,
And checks me in my speed,
My gracious God and Lord!

Thou knowest all I am,
My evil and my shame;
And yet thou hat'st me not;
Nor hast even once forgot
Thy handiwork divine,
This helpless soul of mine,
My ever-loving Lord!

Thou wilt be nearer yet,
And one day I shall get
The fuller vision of thy face,
In all its perfect light and grace;
When I shall see thee as thou art,
And in thy kingdom bear my part,
My blessed King and God!