As Some Tall Rock Amidst the Waves

As some tall rock amidst the waves,
The fury of the tempest braves;
While fierce the billows, toiling high,
Break at its foot and murmuring die:

Thus they, who in the Lord confide,
Though foes assault on every side;
Cannot be moved or overthrown,
For Jesus makes their cause His own.

So faithful Stephen, undismayed,
The malice of the Jews surveyed;
The holy joy which filled his breast
A luster on his face impressed.

Behold! he said, the world of light
Is opened to my strengthened sight;
My glorious Lord appears in view,
That Jesus, whom ye lately slew.

With such a friend and witness near,
No form of death could make him fear;
Calm, midst the shower of stones, he kneels,
And only for his murderers feels.

May we, by faith, perceive Thee thus,
Dear Savior, ever near to us!
This fight, through life, our peace shall keep,
And death be feared no more than sleep.

Words: John Newton (The Death of Stephen)