Hymn Desk
Hymn Texts /

The Day Thou Gavest

The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended

The hymn celebrates God's eternal nature and continuous worship throughout creation, reflecting Lutheran emphasis on God's omnipotence and the communion of saints across time and space. It exemplifies the Lutheran appreciation for ordered, liturgical worship and the theme of God's kingdom extending over all the earth.

History & Background

Written by John Ellerton in 1870 for the 'Hymns Ancient and Modern' collection, this evening hymn became one of the most widely used Anglican hymns in English-speaking churches. It was first published in 1875 and has remained a staple of Lutheran, Anglican, and ecumenical worship.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Chalice Hymnal — 683
  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 634
  • The Hymnal 1982 — 24
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 274
  • Lutheran Service Book — 886
  • Lutheran Worship — 482
  • With One Voice — 631

Bulletin Note

Written by John Ellerton in 1870, this evening hymn celebrates God's continuous worship throughout creation. Its text has become a liturgical treasure, sung at sunset services and royal occasions worldwide, echoing the medieval office tradition.

Preaching Connection

This hymn embodies the Gospel's promise that God's kingdom transcends our weakness and mortality, inviting the Law's call to perpetual gratitude and obedience within the comfort of His eternal reign.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From personal evening rest in God's providence to cosmic affirmation of God's eternal kingdom, moving from individual conscience comfort to eschatological confidence

Themes

God's eternal providence Continuous praise across the world Evening prayer Divine sovereignty Rest in God

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