Why should I repine in sadness

1 Why should I repine in sadness?
Left alone, still I own
Christ, the Sun of gladness.
Nor am I deprived of heaven,
Which the Lord, my reward,
To my faith has given.

2 What though earthly cares o'ertake me,
Pain and loss be my cross?
He will not forsake me.
Sure relief from Him obtaining,
I shall see darkness flee
And the shadows waning.

3 From a thousand ills that grieve us
In this life full of strife
Death can but relieve us.
For it closeth sorrow's portal
Evermore, and its door
Leads to joys immortal.

4 What is all this life containeth
But a hand full of sand?
Earthly treasure waneth.
Nobler gifts beyond are waiting,
While my Lord will award
Pleasure unabating.

5 Lord, my Joy-spring, flowing ever,
I am Thine, Thou art mine;
Naught our hearts shall sever.
Thou for me Thy life didst offer,
Thou alone now dost own
All I have to proffer.

6 Thou art mine, by faith own Thee,
Nor will I, Light of joy.
From my heart dethrone Thee.
Grant that I Thy face beholding,
Ever may with Thee stay,
Blest in love's enfolding.

Source: American Lutheran Hymnal #275