140. The Sabbath day

Albert.
1 While the Sunday bells are ringing,
Let us wander wild and free;
While the flow'rs around are springing,
Come and play along with me.

Benjamin.
What! and mock the God who made us,
Scorn what his commandments say?
God is mighty, and he bade us
Holy keep the Sabbath day.

Albert.
2 Yes! but who would mourn and sorrow
When he might some pleasure see;
Perhaps there may be rain tomorrow;
Come today, and play with me.

Benjamin.
The Gospel is the greatest treasure,
Shall I cast it all away?
Not for every worldly pleasure
Will I break the Sabbath day.

Albert.
3 While our frames are strong and hearty,
Let's be happy; come, agree;
Let us join a pleasant party;
Spare an hour to play with me.

Benjamin.
Duty loudly bids me stay not;
Bids me hear not what you say;
Life goes quickly, and I may not
Live another Sabbath day.

Albert.
4 Sure you have not lost your reason,
Why should children churlish be?
Only for a little season,
For one moment play with me.

Benjamin:
Not a moment; grace is stronger
Than the snares the wicked lay;
Sin it is to linger longer
I will keep the Sabbath day.

Albert.
5 Serious thoughts will do to-morrow,
I will spend a merry day;
Children need not dwell in sorrow,
They should now be brisk and gay.

Benjamin.
Boast not, here there's no abiding,
I would seek the Lord to-day;
And in Christ alone confiding,
Spend aright the Sabbath day.

Text Information
First Line: While the Sunday bells are ringing
Title: The Sabbath day
Language: English
Publication Date: 1855
Notes: Dialogue between Albert and Benjamin.
Tune Information
Name: THE SABBATH DAY
Meter: 8s & 7s
Key: G Major or modal



Suggestions or corrections? Contact us