Words & Music: , in Gospel Hymns Nos. 1 to 6 Complete, by et al. (Chicago, Illinois: The Biglow & Main Company, 1894).
The Lord is coming by and by,
Be ready when He comes;
He comes from His fair home on high,
Be ready when He comes;
He is the Lord our Righteousness,
And comes His chosen ones to bless,
And at His Father’s throne confess;
Be ready when He comes.
Refrain
Will you be ready when the Bridegroom comes?
Will you be ready when the Bridegroom comes?
Will your lamps be trimmed and bright,
Be it morning, noon or night?
Will you be ready when the Bridegroom comes?
He soon will come to earth again,
Be ready when He comes;
Begin His universal reign,
Be ready when He comes;
With hallelujahs Heav’n will ring,
When Jesus does redemption bring;
O trim your lamps to meet your King!
Be ready when He comes.
Refrain
Behold! He comes to one and all,
Be ready when He comes;
He quickly comes with trumpet call,
Be ready when He comes;
To judgment called at His command,
Drawn thither by His mighty hand,
Before His throne we all must stand;
Be ready when He comes.
Refrain