We Plow the Fields

In honor of spring planting time here in Iowa, here is an appropriate hymn. The lyrics were penned by Matthias Claudius (1740-1815), who heard the words sung by local farmers in Germany.

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We Plow the Fields

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Verse 1:

We plow the fields and scatter

The good seed on the land,

But it is fed and watered

By God's almightly hand.

He sends the snow in winter,

The warmth to swell the grain,

The breezes and the sunshine,

And soft, refreshing rain.

Verse 2:

He only is the Maker

Of all things near and far;

He paints the wayside flower,

He lights the evening star.

The winds and waves obey Him,

By Him the birds are fed;

Much more, to us his children,

He gives our daily bread.

Verse 3:

We thank Thee then, O Father,

For all things bright and good;

The seedtime and the harvest,

Our life, our health, our food.

Accept the gifts we offer

For all Thy love imparts,

And, what Thou most desirest,

Our humble, thankful hearts.

Refrain:

All good gifts around us

Are sent from heaven above;

Then thank the Lord,

O thank the Lord

For all His love.

AMEN

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Cyberhymnal link: www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/w/e/weplowtf.htm