How bright a day was that which saw

1How bright a day was that which saw
Creation's work completed!
All nature owned her Maker's law,
And worship at his feet.

2The world, arranged by power divine,
In perfect order stood;
And, resting from his great design,
God saw that all was good.

3Not such a Sabbath now appears,
For sin has ruined all;
No longer man with pleasure hears
A gracious Maker's call.

4Yet, Lord, bring back the reign of peace,
Let brighter days begin;
And teach your creatures how to cease
From folly and from sin.

5Let sinners be again made whole,
Though once with vengeance cursed;
And let the holy Sabbath roll
As glorious as at first.