Dark Was the Night

Dark was the night, starless and cheerless,
Black as the coal that burns in the flame.
Empty my heart, aweless and fearless,
Burdened by sin that staked out its claim.

Long was the way as I persisted,
Trapped on the path I’d chosen to trod.
Where was the joy sin had insisted
Lay just beyond what God has outlawed?

I had not known the way I was going
Led to such sorrow, pain, and regret.
Still You came in with love overflowing,
Broke all my chains and cancelled my debt.

Why would You come to carry my burden?
How did You know I needed you so?
What was it, Lord, that made You determined
Sinners to save, and sin to o’erthrow?

Wonder of wonders, all is forgiven!
Great is your mercy, steadfast your love.
Sorrow and shame and guilt you have driven
Out by Your light that shines from above.

Bright is the day when faith will be seeing,
Light as the sun that burns in the sky.
Full is my heart, by faith believing,
Walking with Him who will satisfy.

First image by Elti Meshau

Second image by Dewang Gupta