Poems (Shipton)/Aaron's Breastplate
"AARON'S BREASTPLATE."
"Aaron shall bear their names before the Lord upon his two shoulders for a memorial. . . . Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually."—Exodus xxviii. 12, 29.
"Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us."—Heb. ix. 24.
In the wondrous breastplate golden, Safely on His bosom holden, See the jewels from the mine! Amethyst and onyx wearing Mystic marks, and each one bearing Traces of the hand divine.
Sapphires 'mid the gorgeous cluster Sparkle with celestial luster, Like the crystal dome above; Ruby rare and topaz blending In that glory never-ending, Safe upon the breast of love.
Emerald and beryl throwing Chastened hues, the fairer growing As the jasper blends the rays; Chrysopras, like king's attire, Glowing like a star of fire, Or a soul that loves to praise.
Who the love and pain can measure, Ere revealed this hidden treasure, One by one in dazzling light? On His breast our High Priest wears them, On His shoulder, see, He bears them, Ever in our Father's sight.
Can one jewel lack its station? Nay, for through much tribulation Christ hath won them for His own. Veiled on earth, by sorrow faded, Clouds of care their beauty shaded,— But behold them near the Throne!
They in Christ. How fair! how glorious! Feeble ones in Him victorious,— Who that bond of love can sever? All so fair—not one is fairer, All so dear—not one is dearer, All in Christ,—yea, Christ's for ever!