The Lutheran Hymnal ‎#113

113. While With Ceaseless Course the Sun

1 While with ceaseless course the sun
Hasted thro' the dying 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, Lord, our sins renew;
Teach us henceforth how to live
With eternity in view.
Bless Thy Word to young and old,
Fill us with a Savior's love;
And when life's short tale is told,
May we dwell with Thee above.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: While with ceaseless course the sun
• Title: While With Ceaseless Course the Sun
• Author: John Newton (1774)
• Meter: 7.7.7.7.D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1941
• Scripture:
  Psalm 90:12
• Topic: The Church Year: New Year's Eve

Tune Information

• Name: CHRISTE, WAHRES SEELENLICHT
• Meter: 7.7.7.7.D.
• Key: b minor
• Source: "Neues geistreiches Gesangbuch," Halle, 1704