If Christ Arose

                                              If Christ arose and put an end
                                              To evil’s sway, can I depend
                                                      On Love’s true life to set aright
                                                      A life once lived by human might,
                                              Or must I yet alone contend?

                                              But if he did indeed ascend
                                              From hellish depths, I cannot rend
                                                      Myself from him, nor quench the light,
                                                                      If Christ arose.

                                              I could not on my own intend
                                              To live anew, or hope to mend
                                                      My errant ways; but in my plight
                                                      His life will shine amid the night,
                                              And darkness shall no more impend,
                                                                      If Christ arose.

© David T. Koyzis 1990