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Monday, February 28, 2011

The Christian

The christian.

Honor and happiness unite
To make the christian's name a praise;
How fair the scene, how clear the light,
That fills the remnant of his days!

A kingly character he bears,
No change his priestly office knows;
Unfading is the crown he wears,
His joys can never reach a close.

Adorned with glory from on high,
Salvation shines upon his face;
His robe is of th' ethereal dye,
His steps are dignity and grace.

Inferior honors he disdains,
Nor stoops to take applause from earth,
The King of kings himself, maintains
Th' expenses of his heav'nly birth.

The noblest creature seen below,
Ordained to fill a throne above;
GOD gives him all he can bestow,
His kingdom of eternal love!

My soul is ravished at the thought!
Methinks from earth I see him rise;
Angels congratulate his lot,
And shout him welcome to the skies!


William Cowper (1731-1800)
Olney Hymns, 1779

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

The Christian should have a continual praise in his heart for all that Christ, for whence the name originates, has done for him. For this mere term originated as a negative one at best. It was once degredation in the eyes of man for this term to be used. In later times, the word has often been used to the point of foolish pride by some. For in fact, no man is ever fully a Christian, for no man has ever been of the mind of Christ at all times. We should use this word, if nothing more, to keep a constant reminder of our Lord in our hearts and minds, and be thankful that we are able to go to Him in communion when the sun shines bright, and in the darkest hour.