I followed Christ, and vainly hoped on earth
That he would stay, and in the flesh would dwell;
I knew not that He came of heavenly birth,
As doth the loved disciple of Him tell.
Sudden He left me here! and much I grieved,
And wandered on in sorrow and alone,
Till in his Resurrection I believed;
Then He appeared again, who just had gone;
Spake of his kingdom, which must soon prevail
O'er all the earth, and evermore remain;
The foes which for a time would it assail;
Then He ascended up to heaven again,
Sending the Spirit, that the heart doth fill
With joy and peace and power to do his will.