Passover

FROM Egypt once, ’mid storm and flame,

Redeemed the hosts of Judah came.

What hymns triumphant did they raise

The God of freedom high to praise.

As ’mid the parting waters’ flow

In terror sank the wily foe!

We break the bread, we drink the wine,

In memory of that olden time.

We sing the festal melodies

That swell along the centuries.

The snow-white cloth, the lights are here,

All peace and joy—love’s atmosphere.

O Judah, cherish long the thought

That not for feasting was this wrought;

But ever struggling to be free,

In Pesach’s fragrant text for thee!

Be free, no spirit bondage more!

Be free—and burst the prison door!

Be free—no hypocrite lies!

Be free—no empty mockeries.

Dost hear again the word divine?

“Set free the spirit—it is Mine.”