How long shall death the tyrant reign

How long shall death the tyrant reign,
And triumph o'er the just;
While the rich blood of martyrs slain
Lies mingled with the dust!

When shall the tedious night be gone?
When will our Lord appear?
Our fond desires would pray him down
Our love embrace him here.

Let faith arise and climb the hills,
And from afar descry
How distant are his chariot wheels,
And tell how fast they fly.

We hear the voice, "Ye dead, arise!"
And, lo, the graves obey;
And waking saints, with joyful eyes,
Salute th' expected day.

O may our humble spirits stand
Among them, clothed in white!
The meanest place at his right hand
Is infinite delight.

How shall our joy and wonder rise,
When our returning King
Shall bear us homeward through the skies
On love's triumphant wing.