The Shining Light

I

  My former hopes are fled,
  My terror now begins:
I feel, alas! that I am dead
  In trespasses and sins.

II

  Ah, whither shall I fly?
  I hear the thunder roar:
The law proclaims destruction nigh,
  And vengeance at the door.

III

  When I review my ways,
  I dread impending doom;
But sure a friendly whisper says,
  “Flee from the wrath to come.”

IV

  I see, or think I see,
  A glimm’ring from afar;
A beam of day that shines for me,
  To save me from despair.

V

  Forerunner of the sun,
  It marks the pilgrim’s way;
I’ll gaze upon it while I run,
  And watch the rising day.