When, like a stranger on our sphere

1When, like a stranger on our sphere,
The lowly Jesus wandered here,
Where'er he went, affliction fled,
And sickness reared her fainting head.

2The eye that rolled in irksome night,
Beheld the face—of God its light;
The opening ear, the loosened tongue,
His preacepts heard, his praises sung.

3With bounding step the halt and lame,
To their glad Deliverer came;
O'er the dead grave his voice he raised,
He spake the word, and raised the dead.

4Despairing madness, dark and wild,
In his inspiring presence smiled;
The storm of horror ceased to roll,
And reason lighted up the soul.

5Through paths of loving-kindness led,
Where Jesus triumphed, we would tread;
To all with willing hands dispense
The gifts of our benevolence.