Death is nearer, more by day and hour,
But Christ has pulled its teeth and drawn its power.
Signs it leaves stalking in the thick of weeds,
To safe and open meadows the Shepherd leads.
This life is full of hardship, pain, and woes;
Alone and scorned, the Man of Sorrows knows
The full extent of human life on earth.
In a humble place, a woman gave him birth.
The Father’s will fulfilled, to heaven he rose.
He reigns in peace, a strong and mighty tower.