Lightning in the Night

I

A glance from heav’n with sweet effect,
Sometimes my pensive spirit cheers;
But, ere I can my thoughts collect,
As suddenly it disappears.

II

So lightning in the gloom of night
Affords a momentary day;
Disclosing objects full in sight,
Which, soon as seen, are snatch’d away,

III

Ah! what avail these pleasing scenes!
They do but aggravate my pain;
While darkness quickly intervenes,
And swallows up my joys again.

IV

But shall I murmur at relief?
Though short, it was a precious view.
Sent to control my unbelief,
And prove that what I read was true,

V

The lightning’s flash did not create
The opening prospect it reveal’d;
But only showed the real state
Of what the darkness had conceal d.

VI

Just so, we by a glimpse discern
The glorious things within the veil,
That, when in darkness, we may learn
To live by faith till light prevail.

VII

The Lord’s great day will soon advance,
Dispersing all the shades of night;
Then we no more shall need a glance,
But see by an eternal light.