When on Life a Darkness Falls

When on Life a Darkness Falls

Text written in 1983 by Brian Wren (1936-?)

Sung to EMERALD GATES, anonymous from "Hymns and Tunes" 1885

V. 1 When on life a darkness falls,

When the mist flows chilling,

Paths and signposts lost in doubt,

Loveless, unfulfilling,

Reach us, Jesus, from Your cross, 

Though we feel forsaken;

Keep us through the aching night

Till new dawns awaken.

V. 2 When the dreams and vows of youth

Painfully accuse us,

Stab our conscience, steal our worth,

Christ will not refuse us:

Peace the world cannot provide,

Daily resurrection,

Strong companion at our side

For each new direction.

Isaiah 28:16 So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic."

V. 3 Come and meet Him, Friend and Lord,

Thro' the gospel story:

Open door to life and peace,

Window into glory.

All who seek Him, soon are found,

Made His close relation:

Christ our pathway, Christ our home,

Christ our sure foundation.