[Verse 1] The disciples praised the temple stones; The answer spoke of walls laid low. Wars and rumors would unsettle, False christs rise and hatred grow. Earthquakes, famine, persecution, Witness carried nationwide; Yet the end would not be hurried By each terror men supplied. [Refrain] Watch and be ready. No man knows the day. Watch and be ready. Do not let the lamp decay. Heaven and earth shall pass, But the word shall never sway. Watch and be ready For the Master's sudden day. [Verse 2] Fig leaves tell when summer nears; Signs call wisdom, not a date. As in Noah's generation, Daily life may mask the gate. One servant feeds the household; One grows cruel in delay. Five wise virgins guard their oil; Five discover lamps cannot stay. [Chorus] Watch and be ready, Talent buried gains no praise. Use the trust the Master gives Through all the unannounced days. When the Son of Man comes glorious, Nations gather at the throne; Mercy shown to least and lowly Will reveal the hearts made known. [Final Refrain] Watch and be ready. Lift the head when fear is high. Redemption draws near Though powers shake across the sky.