Dear people we have met today

1. Dear people we have met today,
To sing, to hear, to preach and pray;
It is our Father’s great command,
The road that leads to His right hand;

2. But Oh the sad and awful state,
Of those who stand and come too late,
The foolish virgins did begin,
To knock, but could not enter in.

Source: The Sacred Harp: the best collection of sacred songs, hymns, odes, and anthems ever offered the singing public for general use (1991 rev.) #60