The Desires of the Holy Fathers (second poem)

THESE and other supplications,
As the centuries rolled by,
Men poured forth : with greater fervour
As the promised time drew nigh.

Aged Simeon in the furnace
Of his longing, burning lay,
Praying God that He would grant him
Of His grace to see that day.
And the Ever-blessed Spirit
Condescended to his cry ;
And consoled him with the promise
That the old man should not die

Till he saw the Ever- living
God, descending from above,
Took Him in his arms and held Him,
And embraced Him in His love.