High on a Hill of Dazzling Light

Verse 1

High on a hill of dazzling light,
The King of Glory spreads his seat,
And troops of angels stretch’d for flight,
Stand waiting round his awful feet.

Verse 2

“Go,” saith the Lord, “my Gabriel go,
“Salute the virgin’s fruitful womb,[1]
“Make haste, ye cherubs, down below,
Sing and proclaim the Saviour come.”

Verse 3

Here a bright squadron leaves the skies,
And thick around Elisha stands;[2]
Anon a heavenly soldier flies,
And breaks the chains from Peter’s hands.[3]

Verse 4

Thy winged troops, O God of hosts,
Wait on thy wandering church below,
Here we are sailing to thy coasts,
Let angels be our convoy too.

Verse 5

Are they not all thy servants,[4] Lord?
At thy command they go and come
With cheerful haste obey thy word,
And guard thy children to their home.