1. Long as the darkening cloud abode, So long did
2. Father of spirits! light of light! Lift up the
ancient Israel rest; Nor moved they till the
cloud and rend the vail; Shine forth in fire a-
guiding God, In brighter garments stood confessed.
mid that night Whose blackness makes the heart to fail.

3. 'Tis done! to Christ the power is given.
His death it rent the vail away.
Our great forerunner enters heaven,
And opes th'eternal gates of day.

4. Nor shall those mists that brood o'er time,
Forever blind the mental eye;
They backward roll, and light sublime,
Beams glory from the God on high.

5. Adoring nations hail his dawn;
All kingdoms bless the noontide beam.
And light unfolding life's full morn.
Is vast creation's deathless theme.