THE WAY THITHER by M. Goodwin

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 2, 1879

THE WAY THITHER.

By M. Goodwin

“Does the road wind up hill all the way?” “Yes, to the very end.”

Pilgrim, the way is up that leads to God, And feet that gain the far-off, shining height, Must nobly strive, not as the eagle’s flight, Which soars with pinions strong toward the light, But step by step the long, rough way is trod.

Ah! once the lonely way was dark as night; Wild thorns clung to the mountain’s rugged side; No cover near which might the fainting hide, No angel came, when hearts in anguish cried; In vain the pilgrim watched for morning light.

But One saw all, and left his throne above To walk the weary, weary way alone, Despised by all; and where a crown had shone Upon his brow, men twined the thorns; no moan Escaped the patient lips, so great his love.

But where the thorns were crushed by his pure feet Now bloom luxuriant flowers with fragrance rare; And where at nightfall he but knelt in prayer, His words of love still vibrate on the air, And hearts are rested by their music sweet.

O pilgrim, then press on, with courage strong! For nevermore from us can darkness hide The footprints that he left our feet to guide; And God’s own angels walk our way beside— The way that leads to Peace, and is not long. —M. Goodwin.