Ecstasy

Sometimes a light surprises the Christian while he sings;
It is the Lord who rises with healing in His wings;
When comforts are declining He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining to cheer it after rain.

Oh, had I wings, I would fly away and be at rest,
And I'd praise God in His bright abode!

In holy contemplation, we sweetly then pursue
The theme of God's salvation, and find it ever new;
Set free from present sorrow, we cheerfully can say
E'en let the unknown morrow bring with it what it may.

Oh, had I wings, I would fly away and be at rest,
And I'd praise God in His bright abode!

It can bring with it nothing but He will bear us through
Who gives the lilies clothing will clothe His people too;
Beneath the spreading heaven no creature but is fed;
And He who feeds the ravens will give his children bread.

Oh, had I wings, I would fly away and be at rest,
And I'd praise God in His bright abode!

Tho' vine nor fig tree neither their wonted fruit shall bear,
Though all the field should wither, nor flocks nor herds be there,
Yet God the same abiding, His strength shall tune my voice;
For while in Him confiding, I cannot but rejoice.

Oh, had I wings, I would fly away and be at rest,
And I'd praise God in His bright abode!

--William Cowper, 1731-1800 (1779)