The Passion-Hymns of Iceland ‎#25

25. LABOURERS IN THE VINEYARD

What time life's early morning
Is purpling in thy sky,
And on thy brow lies glistening
With glory from on high
The font's fresh dew, Thy Lord doth say,
"Go! In my Vineyard work to-day."

At the third hour, when gorgeous
The sun of youth doth rise,
And life's entrancing glamour
Allures thy wondering eyes,
Remember! Still He calleth thee
To tend His Vineyard faithfully.

At noon when all-reluctant
The hard-pressed toilers work,
Hark! Still that Voice is calling;
One task thou dar'st not shirk—
To make that vine-row wondrous fair,
Which He hath trusted to thy care.

At the last hour He calleth,
When westering sinks life's sun,
And sable twilight falleth
E'er half the task be done:
While the last fading day-beams shine
Toil on! toil on in strength divine.

At night the Lord His workmen
Himself doth homeward lead:
Each wins the self-same wages,
Eternal life the meed.
God! 'Tis Thy gift, not our reward!
All merit flows from Christ the Lord!

Text Information

• First Line: What time life's early morning
• Title: LABOURERS IN THE VINEYARD
• Author: Valdimar Briem
• Translator: Charles Venn Pilcher
• Meter: 7.6.7.6.8.8
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1913

Tune Information

(No tune information)