O Lord my God! When I in onset slumber
Remember all the years, they plans have stayed
I hear the bells, I hear their tolling number
Thy hour through out the universe delayed

(Chorus)

So waits my soul, my saviour's time is brief
How late Thou art, how late Thou art!
Time takes it toll, at midnight comes a thief
how late Thou art, How late Thou art!

My share of hoods and palaces I've wandered
and heard the beat, beat deeply with repeat
When I walk on, with noble "ghettor" saunter (unlike G. Jefferson's)
I make a vow to save our jungle streets

(chorus repeat)

And if I thought that God, His Son not coming
I'd think to die, I'd scarce could take it in
I watch the clock, I see its hands still running
Its ticks and tocks will dog me to the end

(chorus repeat)

When Christ shall calm my bouts of aberration
And take me home, my song shall top the charts
Then I shall sound in humble proclamation
My God how late Thou art!

(chorus repeat)