WHOM THE LORD LOVETH, HE CHASTENETH.

My Father chastens whom he loves; O! then, he loves me tenderly; Oft in the fire my heart he proves, As oft I know the reason why. For I am full of earthly love; I idolize the gifts of Heaven; And then my Father, from above, Recalls the dear ones he has given. Then earth’s attractions die to me, And I am forced to look above; And He who fills eternity, Attracts my gaze, and fires my love. So, trials let me ever hail, Which bring another world so near; I’m introduced within the veil, And angel songs I seem to hear. Afflicted heart, rejoice, rejoice! The door of Heaven is oped for thee; And hark! O! hark! I hear a voice Which, “Come up hither,” says to me. O! Father! dost thou love me so? These dreadful strokes fall not on me; I bless thy name, each heavy blow But strikes my chain, to set me free!