3.
“He that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin.”
And now the lifting-up sets open wide
The gates of agony: thus to fulfil
The accumulated crown of murderous skill.
They who are lifted heavenward, by His side,
Upon their Cross in patience must abide.
Because He willed, He suffered; 'tis the will
That sanctifies the suffering, and sets still
Each thought that to impatience is allied;
'Tis suffering that affords the wond'rous price
To every guilt-atoning sacrifice.
The offerings of Cain were fruits of earth,
Not sanctified by suffering, nothing worth;
But Abel's worthier gift was of the slain,
And dying animals that spoke of pain.
