The Resurrection Morning
By Max Hill
THE Sabbath passed; the early light of dawn
That creeps abroad when morning star is gone,
Glows faintly from the east on temple wall,
On massive dome where morn's first sunbeams fall,
To turn the gilded pile to shining gold,
Like true shekinah glory as of old. But ah! the dawn looks on a world's unrest,
A world that scorned the purest, holy Guest
That ever trod its vales! Unto His own
He came, His message bore, and still unknown
To His own people, who in cruel pride
But spurned His love, maligned, and crucified. The earthquake shock, the rending temple veil,
The midday darkness, pierced by dying wail
Of Him they crucified, still hold in awe
The hearts of those who felt and heard and saw
The charge, the mockery, the cruel blows,
The road, the cross, the death by basest foes. But still true hearts are beating; for behold,
Ere yet the first faint tinkle from the fold
Is heard, or yet the shepherd is astir,
Three women come to view the sepulcher,—
The Marys and Salome, faithful three
Who followed Him and served in Galilee. As they approach the lonely, rock-hewn tomb
Where He was laid, their hearts are filled with gloom,
For hope is gone. Still love and duty plead
The boon of service to their dead, and lead
Them on to Him, tho with sad voice they say,
“But who for us will roll the stone away?” Downcast their eyes, until they stand before
The garden tomb — the stone removed, the door
Revealing naught within! All fear forgot,
They enter in — but find the Saviour not,
Tho one is there, arrayed in spotless white,
His form divine, and clothed upon with light. “Be not amazed,” they hear the stranger speak.
“The Nazarene, the crucified, ye seek;
He is not here, but risen, and is gone
Before in Galilee. Go, follow on,
Tell His disciples, and to Peter say
The Master goes before upon the way.” O glorious morn, what gifts of life you bring!
O cruel Death, where now your boasted sting?
O message sweet! for past the Rome-sealed stone
The Master comes, and calls you for His own —
In triumph comes, His sacrifice complete!
Go forth to-day, thy risen Lord to meet!