479. The swift declining day

1 The swift declining day,
How fast its moments fly!
While evening's broad and gloomy shade
Spreads o'er the western sky.

2 Ye mortals! mark its pace;
Improve the hours of light;
And know, your Maker can command
An instantaneous night.

3 His word blots out the sun
In its meridian blaze,
And cuts from smiling vig'rous youth
The remnant of its days.

4 On the dark mountain's brow
Your feet shall quickly slide;
And from its airy summit dash
Your momentary pride.

5 Give glory to the Lord,
Who rules the rolling spree;
Submissive at his footstool bow,
And seek salvation there.

6 One thing demands your care:
O be it still pursu'd!
Lest, slighted once, the season fair
Should never be renew'd.

Text Information
First Line: The swift declining day
Meter: S. M.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1814
Topic: Death
Tune Information
(No tune information)



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