What Sweet Reflection, Calm Repose

1 What sweet reflection—calm repose
The gospel preacher's meed,
To feel once more 'mid joys and woes
He sowed the golden seed.

2 Though some beside the way did fly
And some on rocks did spoil;
Though some among the thorns did die,
Perhaps some found good soil.

3 But if no sign of fruit he see
Still, one blest thought remains:
Obeying God's most strict decree
He sowed the precious grains.

4 Obedience, then, to God's commands
Attracts him on his throne,
'Tis fixed among his gracious plans
Th'obedient soul he'll own.

5 Then, sow, ye husbandmen, cast 'way
The Master's choicest seeds;
The seeds you sow in tears today
With morn bring golden sheaves.

Source: The A.M.E. Zion Hymnal: official hymnal of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church #366