The Hidden Years at Nazareth

1The hidden years at Nazareth!
How beautiful they seem,
Like fountains flowing in the dark Or waters in a dream!
Like waters under Syrian stars Reflecting lights above,
Repeating in their silent depths The wonder of God's love.

2The hidden years at Nazareth!
How marvelous they lie,
As open to the smile of God As to the Syrian sky!
As open to the heart of man As to the genial sun,
With dreams of high adventuring,
And deeds of kindness done.

3The hidden years at Nazareth!
How radiant they rise With life and death in balance laid Before a lad's clear eyes!
O soul of youth, forever choose,
Forgetting fate or fear,
To live for truth, or die with God,
Who stands beside thee here.