PROGRESS VI

Before they build their sanctuary
See Israel's idolatry
Before the calf of gold;
Despite your blessings, Christian, start
To learn the evil of your heart
And see its wiles unfold.

How good that Israel can count
On Moses who, upon the mount,
Is near to God to plead;
How good, failed Christian, that you can
Depend on the ascended Man
Who lives to intercede.

Observe how Levi righteously
Enacts God's word judicially
And does not spare the sword;
Despising claims of blood and flesh
When their entrapments would enmesh,
Be zealous for the Lord!

The Levites, who will not relent,
Now leave the camp towards the tent
Which is their separate tryst;
And, Christians, that we might be found
Before the Lord on righteous ground
We must go forth to Christ!