The phrase "This is the day of light" refers to a well-known Christian hymn that celebrates Sunday, the Lord's Day, as a day of spiritual light, worship, and remembrance of Christ's resurrection. Here's a history of the hymn: **1. The Author: John Ellerton (1826-1893)** * John Ellerton was a distinguished English Anglican clergyman and one of the most prolific and influential hymn writers of the 19th century. He served in various parishes and was known for his scholarship, pastoral care, and, most notably, his hymns. * He is credited with writing or translating over 80 hymns and revising many others. Some of his most famous works include "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended" (a popular evening hymn) and "God, Who Made the Earth and Heaven." **2. Origin and Purpose of "This is the Day of Light"** * Ellerton wrote "This is the Day of Light" in **1867**. * Its primary purpose was to provide a suitable hymn for **Sunday morning worship**, specifically celebrating the Christian understanding of the Lord's Day. * The hymn connects three crucial "lights": * **The light of creation:** Recalling God's command "Let there be light" on the first day of creation. * **The light of Christ's resurrection:** Emphasizing that Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week, bringing new spiritual light and hope to humanity. * **The light of the Holy Spirit:** As the day for gathering in worship and receiving divine grace. **3. Theological Themes and Structure** The hymn typically has four stanzas, each building on the central theme: * **Stanza 1:** Establishes Sunday as the "day of light," linking it to both physical creation and the spiritual light of Christ. It often references the opening of Genesis. * **Stanza 2:** Focuses on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who burst forth from the tomb on this day, conquering sin and death. * **Stanza 3:** Calls believers to gather for worship on this holy day, seeking God's grace and teaching. * **Stanza 4:** Looks forward to the eternal "day of light" in heaven, when believers will dwell in perpetual light with God. **4. Popularity and Usage** * "This is the Day of Light" quickly gained popularity and was included in numerous hymnals across various denominations, particularly in Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Baptist traditions. * It is frequently paired with the tune **ST. ANNE** (also known for "O God, Our Help in Ages Past") or sometimes **ELLERTON** (a tune named after the author, composed by W. P. Merriman). * Its enduring appeal lies in its rich theological content, poetic language, and its ability to inspire reverence and joy for the Lord's Day. In summary, "This is the Day of Light" is a cherished 19th-century hymn by John Ellerton, designed to be sung on Sunday mornings. It beautifully weaves together the themes of creation, Christ's resurrection, and the promise of eternal light, making it a powerful expression of Christian worship and hope.