Methodist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#270

270. While, with ceaseless course, the sun

1 While, with ceaseless course, the sun
Hasted through the circling 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 winged 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 Him above.

Text Information

• First Line: While, with ceaseless course, the sun
• Author: J. Newton, 1725-1807
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1917
• Topic: Retrospect of the Year; Brevity of Life; Year, Close of the; The Church and the Kingdom of God: Ordinances; Life: Brevity of

Tune Information

• Name: BENEVENTO
• Composer: Samuel Webbe, 1740-1816
• Meter: 7.7.7.7.7.7.7.7
• Key: E Major