Sometimes a light surprises

by Cowper Cennicit · by Wirtemburgischen Katholischen Hofkapelle

Representative text

As printed in The Church Hymnal (1941), no. 254 — the newest hymnal carrying it.

Verse 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.

Verse 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.

Verse 3

Children of God lack nothing, His promise bears them 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.

Verse 4

Though vine nor fig tree neither Their wonted fruit should bear, Though all the fields 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.