[Oracle] Half of the cedar warmed bread by the flame, The other half listened when a craftsman gave it a name. A mouth carved in timber could never reply, [People] I am first, I am last; there is none beside, I call kings by name and I open the gates. [Oracle] A hand full of ashes still lifted it high. Cyrus was summoned before he knew why, Bronze doors gave way and proud kingdoms went by. The idols bent low and became beasts’ load, [People] I am first, I am last; there is none beside, I call kings by name and I open the gates. But the God who formed Jacob carried him home. [Bridge] Drop down, O heavens; let righteousness spring, The Maker is not questioned by the clay he is shaping. Counsel will stand though the empires decline, [Coda] Salvation draws near at the appointed time. I am first, I am last; there is none beside, I call kings by name and I open the gates.