Scripture Verse

As long as it is day, I must do the work of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work. John 9:4

Introduction

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Anna L. Coghill
1836–1907

Words: An­na L. Cog­hill, 1854. Pub­lished as The Night Com­eth in Leaves from the Back­woods (Mon­tré­al, Ca­na­da: John Lo­vell, 1862), pag­es 42–43. Adapt­ed and pub­lished as a hymn by Low­ell Ma­son, 1864.

Music: Work Song Lo­well Ma­son, 1864 (🔊 pdf nwc).

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Lowell Mason (1792–1872)

Lyrics

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.