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  • 667 Sometimes a light surprises

    The Hymnal 1982 667

    Sometimes a light surprises

    Tune
    light
    Author(s)
    William Cowper, 1731-1800
    Meter
    7.6.7.6 D
    Tune Source(s)
    melody from The Christian Lyre, 1830

    More information available on ritesong or Hymnary.org.

    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 should bear, though all the fields 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.

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