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HYMN #0947 SSS #947 • SS&S Meter: P.M. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #947: Only " a little while " sowing

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

1
Only" a little while" sowing and reaping,
Only" a little while" our vigil keeping;
Then shall we gather home, no more to sever,
Clasped in eternal love, blest, blest for ever!
Blest, blest for ever! no more to sever:
Clasped in eternal love, blest, blest for ever!
2
Only" a little while" heart-break and sorrow,
Dark though the night may be, cloud less the morrow;
Only" a little while, "earth-ties to sever,
Then in our Fatherland, blest, blest for ever!
3
Only" a little while" shadow and sadness,
Then in eternity, sunshine and gladness;
Only" a little while, "then o’er the river,
Home, rest, and victor-palm, life, joy, for ever!
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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Only " a little while " sowing"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #947 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 3 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

  • Poetic Meter: P.M.
  • Stanza Structure: 3 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
  • Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
  • Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship
⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.
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