Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
Matthew 22:4
Words: Fanny Crosby, in The Joyful Sound, edited by John Sweney & William J. Kirkpatrick (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: John J. Hood, 1889), page 43. Some hymnals give the author as Sallie Smith, one of Fanny’s pseudonyms.
Music: John R. Sweney (🔊 pdf nwc).
All is ready, the Master said,
All is ready, the feast is spread;
Sweet His message of love to all,
Yet how many will slight the call!
Refrain
Why, why, why will you die?
Ask, and the Savior will freely forgive;
Why, why, why will you die?
Only a look, and your soul shall live.
All is ready, He calleth still;
Come, and welcome, whoever will;
Bring your burdens of doubts and fears,
Bring your sorrow, your cares and tears.
Refrain
Though His mercy prolongs your day,
Time is precious, no more delay;
Now He listens to hear your prayer,
Haste the garment of praise to wear.
Refrain
Take the pardon His love bestows,
Take the water of life that flows;
Lo, He standeth beside the door:
Hear the Spirit your hearts implore.
Refrain