A SHADOW OF THE HEAVENLY.
By M. D.
PLEASANT the path before the newly wed,
When hearts are one;
New springs of gladness opening ’neath their tread,
New life begun. New home, with sacred possibilities,
New tasks employ,
New scenes to wake the heart’s deep harmonies,
New love and joy. The arm strong to protect, the heart’s sweet trust,
The pain that gives
Joy of self-sacrifice to each, as each
For other lives. O blessed gift, in this to know a type
Of things divine:
He saith, the Holy One, “I have betrothed
Thee, thou art Mine.” Old things are passed away, lo, all is new;
The heart’s surcease
Of self, the yielded will, the quiet trust,
Hath perfect peace. “My dove, My undefiled,”—His word, whose grace
Doth work alone,
O vile, once slave of sin, to make thee meet—
Meet for His throne. To watch, to guard, to keep, with changeless love;
Reck not thy shame;
“Thy Maker thine Husband is,” ever thy shield
His glorious name.