The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended

By John Ellerton

Lyrics

1. The day you gave us, Lord, is ended,
the darkness falls at your request;
to you our morning hymns ascended,
your praise shall sanctify our rest.

2. We thank you that your Church, unsleeping
while earth rolls onward into light,
through all the world her watch is keeping
and never rests by day or night.

3. As over continent and island
each dawn leads to another day,
the voice of prayer is never silent,
nor do the praises die away.

4. So be it, Lord! Your throne shall never,
like earth’s proud empires, pass away;
your kingdom stands and grows forever
until there dawns your glorious day.

Bible Reference

Psalm 19:2; Psalm 113:2–4; Romans 13:11–12; 1 Thessalonians 5:5–10; Revelation 7:9–12

About This Hymn

"The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended" is a beloved Christian hymn composed by the Reverend John Ellerton in 1870. Ellerton, an Anglican clergyman and prolific hymn writer, crafted this evening hymn to reflect the global and continuous nature of Christian worship. The hymn's lyrics emphasize the unbroken cycle of prayer and praise as the Earth rotates, with one part of the world always engaged in worship.

The hymn was first published in A Liturgy for Missionary Meetings in 1870 and was later included in various hymnals, such as Church Hymns and Tunes (1871) and The Hymnal (1955 edition). Its enduring popularity is evident, with the hymn being sung at significant events, including Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897 and the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.

Musically, the hymn is commonly set to the tune "St. Clement," composed by Reverend Clement Cotteril Scholefield in 1874. This melody complements the hymn's reflective and universal themes. The tune "St. Clement" is also used for other hymns, such as "O Love Divine, How Sweet Thou Art," showcasing its versatility in Christian worship.

"The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended" continues to be a cherished hymn, reminding believers of the global and ceaseless nature of Christian worship and the hope of eternal rest in God's presence.