Now the Day Is Over

Now the day is over

The hymn embodies Lutheran confidence in God's providential care and protection, reflecting the peace that comes from faith in Christ's redemption. It expresses the doctrine of divine providence while acknowledging human vulnerability, encouraging rest in God's sovereign goodness rather than human anxiety.

History & Background

Written by Sabine Baring-Gould in 1865 as a children's evening hymn, it was first published in Hymns Ancient and Modern (1868). The hymn quickly became one of the most beloved evening hymns in English-speaking Christianity.

Hymnal Appearances

Chalice Hymnal — 671
Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 570
The Hymnal 1982 — 11
Lutheran Book of Worship — 280
Lutheran Worship — 491
New Century Hymnal — 343
The Lutheran Hymnal — 654
United Methodist Hymnal — 686

Bulletin Note

Written by Sabine Baring-Gould in 1865, this evening hymn became a staple of Lutheran devotion. Its gentle meter and protective imagery shaped generations of night prayers, anchoring weary souls in God's providential care rather than human strength.

Preaching Connection

This hymn develops the Gospel promise of divine providence by transforming human vulnerability into an occasion for faith, inviting listeners to hear in their own fatigue a call to abandon self-reliance and embrace the cross-won security of God's merciful watch.

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From evening's natural rest to divine protection through the night—God's care encompasses all creatures and conditions, culminating in angelic vigilance over the vulnerable.

Themes

God's protection and rest Evening prayer and trust Peace in God's care Surrender to divine providence