Trinity Hymnal (Rev. ed.) ‎#621

621. 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.

Text Information

• First Line: Sometimes a light surprises
• Title: Sometimes a Light Surprises
• Author: William Cowper (1779)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1990
• Scripture:
  Habakkuk 3:17-18
  ;
  Malachi 4:2
• Topic: Trust in God; The Christian Life: God's Refreshing Grace; Opening and Closing of the Year; Peace and Joy; Tribulation and Suffering: Prayer in

Tune Information

• Name: BENTLEY
• Composer: John Hullah (1867)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.D.
• Key: C Major