Church Book ‎#139

139. While with ceaseless course the sun

1 While with ceaseless course the sun
Hasted through the former year,
Many souls their race have run,
Never more to meet us here;
Fixed in an eternal state,
They have done with all below;
We a little longer wait,
But how little, none can know.

2 As the wingéd arrow flies
Speedily, the mark to find;
As the lightning from the skies
Darts, and leaves no trace behind;
Swiftly thus our fleeting days
Bear us down life's rapid stream:
Upward, Lord, our spirits raise;
All below is but a dream.

3 Thanks for mercies past receive,
Pardon of our sins renew;
Teach us henceforth how to live
With eternity in view.
Bless Thy word to young and old,
Fill us with a Saviour's love;
And when life's short tale is told,
May we dwell with Thee above.

Text Information

• First Line: While with ceaseless course the sun
• Author: John Newton (1779)
• Meter: 7s,
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1890
• Topic: New Year; Circumcision; Name of Christ; New Years Day
• Notes: Now Public Domain. Alternate tune: #423 or BENEVENTO by Webbe (end of hymnal #472b)

Tune Information

• Name: ALLE MENSCHEN MÜSSEN STERBEN
• Meter: 7s,
• Key: C Major
• Notes: Now Public Domain. Composer from index: J. Schop, 1641