Oh, How Great Is Our Joy
Andrés C. González was a missionary jailed in Mexico City in 1910 for singing a Christian hymn. In that dark night he was inspired to write new words of joy and testimony, which later became the beloved Spanish hymn "Placentero nos es trabajar." Using the tune "Sweet By and By," this English translation begins tenderly with women’s voices, followed by a verse for the men, and rises to a stirring conclusion for full choir before closing in quiet simplicity—a moving expression of service, love, and devotion.
Available in the following versions:
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SATB (div.) and Piano
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SATB (div.) and Organ Four Hands
TEXT
Oh, how great is our joy ev’ry day
As we serve in the work of our Lord.
What an honor to walk in His way
As we share Jesus’ light and His word.
Share His light, share His light, share His light, share His light—
Oh, how great is our joy ev’ry day, ev’ry day.
Share His light, share His light, share His light, share His light—
As we serve in this glorious way.
Hear the word of the Lord unto all.
Teach with gladness His truths from above.
Oh, remember and always recall
Jesus’ goodness, His grace, and His love.
Share His love, share His love, share His love, share His love—
Hear the word of the Lord unto all, unto all.
Share His love, share His love, share His love, share His love—
As you faithfully honor your call.
Oh, dear brothers and sisters, rejoice,
For the time of our labors has come.
Let us lift up our hearts and our voice
Till we meet in our heavenly home.
Till we meet, till we meet,
Oh, dear brothers and sisters, rejoice.
Till we meet, till we meet,
Let us lift up our hearts and rejoice.
Text by Andrés C. González, trans.