October 10, 2005

Have faith in God –
Whose lamp of prophecy is burning;
Have faith in God –
The page of history is turning;
Have faith in God –
As millions for His day are yearning.
Have faith, dear friend, in God.

Work, For the Night is Coming

Anna Louisa Walker Coghill, 1836-1907

    As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world. John 9:4, 5.

    This hymn, which emphasizes the joy and dignity of work, especially Christian service, was written in 1854 by an 18-year-old Canadian girl, known then as Annie Louise Walker. Annie married a wealthy merchant, Harry Coghill, in 1883. Her poem was first published in a Canadian newspaper and later in her own book, Leaves From the Back Woods. Mrs. Coghill eventually attained prominence as a poet and author, producing several volumes, which enjoyed wide circulation.

Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the morning hours;
Work while the dew is sparkling,
Work ’mid springing flowers;
Work when the day grows brighter,
Work in the glowing sun;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man’s work is done.

Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the sunny noon;
Fill brightest hours with labor,
Rest comes sure and soon.
Give every flying minute,
Something to keep in store;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man works no more.

Work, for the night is coming,
Under the sunset skies;
While their bright tints are glowing,
Work, for daylight flies.
Work till the last beam fadeth,
Fadeth to shine no more;
Work, while the night is darkening,
When man’s work is o’er.

Have Faith in God by H.M.S. Richards, Used by Permission