"Sir, we would see Jesus"--St. John, 12:21.
Oft when among earth's busy throng,
The lowly mingle with the proud,
With yearning heart and restless eyes
I scan the eager, hurrying crowd
I see the beauty, wealth and pride
The glittering, grand display of men,
I turn away unsatisfied;
I would see Jesus then.
In sorrow's hour, my heart bowed down
With woe so great no words I speak
No earthly friend can sympathize
No earthly friend can comprehend,
Yet in my time of deepest grief
All else unheeded and unseen,
My soul would find a sweet relief
Could I see Jesus then.
When by affliction's hand laid low
I rest upon a dying bed,
My race is run, I know that I
Shall soon be numbered with the dead,
How vain the help of earthly friends,
How vain to turn to earth again
No, when these eyes grow dim in death,
May I see Jesus then.
Now all these earthly woes are past,
Grief, pain and death I fear no more,
The heights of love are gained at last
I stand entranced at heaven's door,
In realms of bliss so pure, so bright,
Surpassing words of tongue or pen,
With new, glad eyes, oh glorious sight,
I shall see Jesus then.
--Mrs. Ida M. Roberts
Mattoon, Ky.
Source: Crittenden Press. (Marion, Ky.), March 24, 1904, Image 6 - Chronicling America - The Library of Congress.