The shining Light

William Cowper · 1779

Catalog grade guidance: 3–5 — Olney hymn for school recitation; preview archaic diction.

25 content lines · 120 words · Est. recitation about 1 min 32 sec (approx.)

Public-domain text for reading and recitation practice. Source: Christian Classics Ethereal Library (Olney Hymns, 1779).Estimated time uses ~120 words/minute plus short pauses—not a contest rule.

Hymn 8

William Cowper

6,6,8,6

The shining Light.

My former hopes are dead,

My terror now begins;

I feel, alas! that I am dead

In trespasses and sins.

Ah, whither shall I fly?

I hear the thunder roar

The law proclaims destruction nigh,

And vengeance at the door.

When I review my ways,

I dread impending doom;

But sure, a friendly whisper says,

"Flee from the wrath to come."

I see, or think I see,

A glimm'ring from afar;

A beam of day that shines for me,

To save me from despair.

Fore-runner of the sun,
Ps 130:6

It marks the Pilgrim's way;

I'll gaze upon it while I run,

And watch the rising day.