Trinity Hymnal ‎#520

520. Sometimes a light surprises

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.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: Sometimes a light surprises
• Author: William Cowper (1779)
• Meter: 7. 6. 7. 6. D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1961
• Scripture:
  Habakkuk 3:17-18
  ;
  Malachi 4:2
• Topic: Christian Life: God's Refreshing Grace; Grace: Refreshing; Opening and Closing of the Year; Peace and Joy; Poverty; Tribulation and Suffering: Prayer in; Trust in God

Tune Information

• Name: BENTLEY
• Composer: John Hullah (1887)
• Meter: 7. 6. 7. 6. D.
• Key: C Major