She clasped my hand, this good Samaritan, And looked compassionately in my heart; She felt a kindred grief: we must not part! Perhaps she claimed descent from Ruth's true clan, Embracing me in her warm creedless span. She gave this groping, baffled soul a start; And strengthened me -- hers was the gracious art -- Rekindling pride in Esther's caravan; And Moses, bearer of God's covenant, Revealing Israel's noble heritage. She brought me courage in my darkest hour! She clasped my hand -- faith sings its triumph-chant. My hope restored! Now let the Tyrant rage. My strength is God. He is my staff, my power. |