The New Command.

Hamilton Smith.

"A new commandment I give to you, that ye love one another;
as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." — John 13:34.

His hour has come; at last the Father's home,
Beyond dark death, as sunlight on the hill,
Shines o'er the valley of the Father's will.
The day has dawned, when He must leave His own
To tread a path that He must take alone;
And drawing nearer to that day of days,
Upon His soul a load of sorrow weighs:
Upon His heart of love divine, well known,
One rests his wearied head, with great delight;
One takes the sop, and passes into night:
And thus set free, the Master's voice is heard —
"If all men are to learn that ye are Mine,
Then take to heart My last — My parting word —
And let your love to one another shine."