1 Sometimes a light surprises The Christian while he sings; It is the Lord, who rises With healing in his wings: When comforts are declining, He grants the soul again A season of clear shining, To cheer it after rain. 2 In holy contemplation We sweetly then pursue The theme of God's salvation, And find it ever new; Set free from present sorrow, We cheerfully can say, "Let the unknown tomorrow Bring with it what it may." 3 It can bring with it nothing But he will bear us through; Who gives the lilies clothing Will clothe his people too: Beneath the spreading heavens No creature but is fed; And he who feeds the ravens Will give his children bread. 4 Though vine nor fig tree neither Their wonted fruit shall bear, Though all the field should wither, Nor flocks nor herds be there; Yet God the same abiding, His praise shall tune my voice, For, while in him confiding, I cannot but rejoice.