My former hopes are fled, <br />My terror now begins; <br />I feel, alas! that I am dead <br />In trespasses and sins. <br /> <br />Ah, whither shall I fly? <br />I hear the thunder roar; <br />The Law proclaims Destruction nigh, <br />And Vengeance at the door. <br /> <br />When I review my ways, <br />I dread impending doom: <br />But sure a friendly whisper says, <br />"Flee from the wrath to come." <br /> <br />I see, or think I see, <br />A glimmering from afar; <br />A beam of day, that shines for me, <br />To save me from despair. <br /> <br />Forerunner of the sun, <br />It marks the pilgrim's way; <br />I'll gaze upon it while I run, <br />And watch the rising day.<br /><br />William Cowper<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-shining-light/
