Melodious Sonnets ‎#90

90. The Countersign

1 In the darkness, as I trod
On a wayward, lost design,
Suddenly a man of God
Shouted for the countersign.

Refrain:
Pass the word from soul to soul,
Let it ring along the line:
“Jesus Christ has made me whole!”
This shall be my countersign.

2 Trav’ler, halt! where now you stand
There is drawn a deadly line;
Ere you pass to yonder land
You must give the countersign. [Refrain]

3 Back to where the words were given,
There I sought the love divine;
When the order came from heaven,
“Christ shall be your countersign.” [Refrain]

4 Sentinel, have you the word
Given from thy God to thee?
Yes, I know the blessed Lord,
“Th’-blood of Jesus” cleanseth me. [Refrain]

5 Guards will not arrest me now,
Nothing’s wrong within the line;
Heaven’s light is on my brow,—
Christ withing the countersign. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: In the darkness, as I trod
• Title: The Countersign
• Author: Rev. Jno. O. Foster, A. M.
• Refrain First Line: Pass the word from soul to soul
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1885

Tune Information

• Name: [In the darkness, as I trod]
• Composer: Jno. R. Sweney