"Songs of deliverance"

M. ROSAMOND WATSON

Glad hymns of praise from out a dungeon's depth
Burst prison bars long centuries ago,
And proved the might of Mind's omnipotence,
The right of joy to cast out seeming woe.
Chains could not bind, nor fetters manacle
The faith triumphant, which broke forth in songs
Of sure deliverance, blessing all who heard
Their vibrant tones of freedom and of joy.

Sing out, my soul! What though the clouds of sense
Hang heavily, enshrouding all the blue;
What though the bolts and bars of self and fear
Would bind thee fast, a captive at their will!
Arise and sing! Hast thou forgot thy right?
The child of God has heritage of joy,
For He Himself doth compass thee about
With songs of sure deliverance and praise.