Scripture Verse

Of that day and that hour knoweth no man—no, not the angels who are in Heaven, neither the Son, but only the Father. Mark 13:32

Introduction

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Carolyn W. Gillette (1961–)

Words: Ca­ro­lyn W. Gil­lette, 2016. A hymn for the First Sun­day of Ad­vent.

Music: Ir­by Hen­ry J. Gaunt­lett, 1849 (🔊 pdf nwc).

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Henry J. Gauntlett (1805–1876)
National Portrait Gallery

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Lyrics

No one knows the day or hour
When the Son of Man will come—
Not the angels singing, Glory!
And not even God’s own Son.
No one knows, so watch and wait.
Serve the Lord! Don’t hesitate.

Long ago, the friends of Noah
Lived their lives their same old ways.
Eating, drinking, joy and struggle
Filled their ordinary days.
Surely they were all surprised
When they saw the waters rise.

Though we do not know the hour,
Christ, you’ve told us what to do.
You have called us to be watchful,
Ready for a world made new.
May we focus on the ways
We can serve you in these days:

May we give to those who hunger,
And give thirsty ones their fill.
May we welcome in the stranger,
Clothe the naked, help the ill.
May we visit prisoners, too;
So we’ll be prepared for you.