Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.
Genesis 19:17
Words: John R. Macduff, Altar Stones (London: James Nisbet, 1853), pages 8–9, alt.
Music: Ben Avon George C. Stebbins, 1912 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Escape from the perilous plain,
The brimstone cloud hangs in the sky,
And ominous symbols proclaim
The season of vengeance is nigh.
How many once plunged in despair,
Have hearkened to mercy’s loud call!
And still may the guilty repair
To refuge provided for all.
The world’s boasted shelters are vain,
Its antidotes fail to relieve;
Its pleasures are mingled with pain,
Its promises only deceive.
But Jesus, Thou life of my soul,
Secure in Thy bosom I hide;
On Thee all my burdens I roll,
I long for no refuge beside.
Should life’s cherished joys disappear,
Its blossoms of happiness fade,
These only the shelter endear,
Which trials can never invade.
Oh, come, blessèd Savior of love,
And gladden my spirit forgiven,
With hope of Thy presence above,
In sorrowless mansions of Heaven!