Poems (Kimball)/"O sad, long-suffering Face"
II.
O sad, long-suffering Face, How can I look and live!O piercèd hands outstretched to save O Voice that cries "Forgive"!
"Forgive," though crowned with thorns, And mocked with many a jeer; "Forgive," though tortured by the nails And wounded by the spear.
O crimson tide of love Outgushing from His side, Flow down and wash the guilty earth Where He is still denied!
In penitence my soul Takes up that cry, "Forgive;" Flow down and wash away my sins, That I may look and live.