Methodist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#547

547. 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,
Even let the unknown to-morrow
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.

Text Information

• First Line: Sometimes a light surprises
• Author: William Cowper, 1731-1800
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1917
• Topic: The Christian Life: Comfort and Sympathy; Trust, in God; Providence

Tune Information

• Name: PETITION
• Arranger: F. J. Haydn, 1732-1809
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.7.6.7.6
• Key: G Major or modal