"My Jesus, I Love Thee"

 

“My Jesus, I Love Thee”

This hymn is one of many where the author is uncertain. Many believe William R. Featherston is the author and that he wrote the song as a teenager when he was converted.

He grew up in the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Montreal, Canada. When he was converted and came to know Jesus personally, and that Jesus loved him, he wrote the words. He then sent a copy to his aunt, who encouraged him to have it published. After he graduated, he served as pastor for several churches.

Several years after Featherston's death, Adoniram Judson Gordon, founder of Gordon College and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, added it in his book of hymns, thus forever transforming this poem to a song.

As Gordon meditated on the anonymous English hymn, he became dissatisfied with its existing melody, and as he later said, “In a moment of inspiration, a beautiful new air sang itself to me.” The hymn in its present form first appeared in the hymnal, The Service of Song for Baptist Churches, in 1876.

Adoniram Judson Gordon was born in New Hampton, New Hampshire, on April 19, 1836, and was named for the famed pioneer Baptist missionary to India-Burma. He became a close friend of Dwight L. Moody and was of great assistance in Moody’s evangelistic efforts in Boston.

One story about Gordon says, “He entered Brown University when 20 years old, and so was an “older” freshman. For his hazing, the students filled his room with smoke and ordered him to stand on a table and preach a sermon. The students did not know him well enough to expect what happened next. He mounted the table and chose as his text, ‘A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves!’ He delivered a very pointed sermon mercilessly to his tormentors. The students in great wrath rushed him like wild animals, but he immediately leaped at the ring-leader and tore his coat in half. John Hay came upon the scene and the students were driven away.”

Gordon is also the composer for the rather well-known gospel song, “In Tenderness He Sought Me.”   He edited a number of hymnals and was editor of the monthly periodical, “The Watchword.”  He also wrote a series of books called “Quiet Talks.”

He died on February 2, 1895, in Boston, of the flu.  He was 59 years old.

This story is told about, “My Jesus I Love Thee,” by Ira D. Sankey, the famed musician for D. L. Moody:

“A famous actress, walking down the street, passed an open door, through which she saw an invalid girl laying on a couch watching people pass by. Thinking to cheer her up, she went inside. The sick girl was a devout Christian.

“The actress, impressed with her words, her patience, her submission, her heaven-lit countenance, and the manner in which she lived her religion, was led to seriously consider the claims of Christianity. She was thoroughly converted and became a true follower of Christ.

“She told her father, the leader of the theater troupe, of her conversion and her conviction that she could not live a consistent Christian life and still be an actress. Her father was upset, attempting to convince her that their living would be lost and their business ruined if she persisted. Because she loved her father dearly, she consented to fill the published engagement set for a few days from then, of which she was the star.

“The play was set to go on. That evening came and the father rejoiced that he had won back his daughter and their living was not to be lost. However, as the actress came out on stage to the applause of the large audience, she stepped forward. A light beamed from her beautiful face. To the now-silent audience she repeated:

“‘My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine;
For Thee all the follies of sin I resign;
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.’

“Through Christ she had conquered. She left with the audience in tears, and retired from the stage, never to appear on it again. But through this, her father was converted. Through their combined evangelistic labors, many were led to Christ.” 

Verse One

“My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine;

For Thee all the follies of sin I resign;

My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou;

If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.”

 1 John 4:13

“This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.”

Godsbless.ing: This verse highlights the spiritual connection we have with God through His Spirit. It emphasizes that when we are united with God, we are infused with His power and love, enabling us to extend that love to others . . . It serves as a reminder that our ability to love and serve others is not just our own doing but a result of God’s presence in our lives. So, the next time you feel compelled to show love and kindness to someone, remember that it is God’s Spirit empowering you to do so and affirming your oneness with Him.

Verse Two

“I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me.

And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree;

I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;

If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.”

John 19:2

“The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe.”

“Calvin’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: This was unquestionably done by the authority of Pilate, in order to affix a mark of infamy on the Son of God, for having made himself a king; and that in order to satisfy the rage of the Jews, as if he had been convinced that the accusations which they brought against Christ were well founded . . . But we see here the amazing cruelty of the Jewish nation, whose minds are not moved to compassion by so piteous a spectacle; but all this is directed by God, in order to reconcile the world to himself by the death of his Son.

Galatians 3:14

“He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.”

Scripturesavvy.com: This verse from Galatians emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus Christ as the means to receive God’s promises. It highlights the concept that Jesus Christ came to redeem us, and through His sacrifice, the blessings promised to Abraham are available to everyone, including Gentiles, not just the Jews. This is a significant shift in understanding the scope of God’s grace and promises. It illustrates that faith, rather than adherence to the law, is the pathway to receiving the Holy Spirit and God’s blessings . . . The term “redeemed” signifies that Jesus paid a price to free us from the bondage of sin and the law. In this verse, the “blessing” mentioned refers to the spiritual inheritance received through faith in Christ, which allows all believers to be part of God’s family. Thus, we are encouraged to embrace this truth, knowing that we are made heirs to God’s promises through Jesus.

Verse Three

“I'll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,

And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath,

And say when the deathdew lies cold on my brow:

If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.”

 Psalm 9:2

“I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.”

Godsbless.ing: This verse is a declaration of joy, gratitude, and praise towards God, specifically addressing Him as the Most High. The speaker expresses a deep sense of happiness and contentment in their relationship with God, indicating that they will not only be glad but also rejoice in Him. They openly declare their love and admiration for God by choosing to sing the praises of His name, showing reverence and honor for His sovereignty and majesty . . . Have you ever felt an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude that you just couldn’t contain it? Imagine being in such awe of God’s presence and goodness that you can’t help but burst forth in song and praise. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of worship and how it can uplift our spirits and nourish our souls. So next time you find yourself feeling happy and grateful, take a moment to sing praises to the Most High and let that joy radiate from your heart. 

Verse Four

“In mansions of glory and endless delight,

I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;

I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow:

If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.”

2 Timothy 4:8

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.”

Biblerepository.com: This verse, 2 Timothy 4:8, holds a special place in the heart of believers, emphasizing the rewards that await those who remain faithful and steadfast in their walk with God. The term “crown of righteousness” relates to the ultimate recognition we will receive from the Lord. It’s not just an ordinary prize but a symbol of God’s approval and affirmation of our lives lived in faith. We are assured that we will receive this crown not just for our works but also for our love and anticipation of Jesus’s return.

“If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.” Words to remember. Words to soothe. Words to sing joyfully. Words to praise God with. Don’t ever forget them.

I am indebted to the following resources:

Lukepowellministries.com

Umcdiscipleship.org

En.wikipedia.org

Dianaleaghmatthews.com

By His Grace . . . 

Jesus Loves Me

 

Anna B. Warner, writer of this hymn, wrote the words at the request of her sister, Susan Bogert. Her sister was writing a novel, titled “Say and Seal,” and needed a song to comfort a boy at the brink of death. He was comforted by his Sunday School teacher, who was rocking him in his arms, and sang, “Jesus Loves Me.” A hymn was born.

Warner and her sister lived in a townhouse in New York City where their father, Henry Whiting Warner, was a successful lawyer. They lost their mother at an early age.

The Panic of 1837 affected their family’s finances, and they were forced to move to Constitution Island, in a dilapidated Revolutionary War-era home, which was right across from the Military Academy at West Point. For some years, they taught Sunday school classes for the cadets.

Both were well-educated women. They felt the burden to contribute to the family income and began to write stories and poems for publication. They were successful at this venture and was able to put out 106 publications, 18 of which they co-authored.

They willed their home, called Good Crag, to the Academy, and it was made into a national shrine where both sisters were buried with military honors in recognition for the spiritual guidance they offered to young military officers.

Warner also wrote novels under the pseudonym, Amy Lothrop, and she authored two collections of hymns, Hymns of the Church Militant (1858) and Wayfaring Hymns, Original and Translated (1869). Though Susan was the more famous literary personality during her lifetime, it is Anna’s hymn that has become the most famous work.

William Bradbury, a famous hymn writer read this novel and was inspired to write a simple, pentatonic tune that can go along with the words. Today, this hymn is in over 559 hymnals and translated in many languages.

Of the many stories about this hymn, one of the most memorable came from the Swiss-German theologian, Karl Barth (1886–1968). Numerous sources attest that they heard Barth cite the first stanza of the hymn in response to a question posed to him at the close of a series of lectures near the end of his life at the University of Chicago Divinity School. Other accounts say that it took place at Union Seminary, Richmond, Virginia.

A weary Barth agreed to respond to questions at the conclusion of the lectures. The story has been retold countless times as a sermon illustration. The seminary president posed one, “Of all the theological insights you have ever had, which do you consider to be the greatest of them all?” Others recall that the question was, “How would you summarize your theology in a single sentence?” Accounts indicate some quiet drama followed while the great scholar meditated. Whichever question was asked, the answer was “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!”

Verse One

“Jesus loves me! this I know,

For the Bible tells me so;

Little ones to Him belong;

They are weak, but He is strong.”

Matthew 10:42

“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

Scripturesavvy.com: When Jesus mentions “one of these little ones,” He is referring to believers, particularly those who are vulnerable or significant in His eyes, such as children or new followers in faith. The verse emphasizes that our actions, no matter how small they may seem, do not go unnoticed by God . . . The term “little ones” highlights those who are in need and plays a crucial role. It’s a reminder to us not to forget about those who might often be overlooked in society – children, the sick, or marginalized individuals. By referring to them as “little ones,” Jesus places enormous value on their well-being and reminds us of our duty to care for them.

Verse Two

“Jesus loves me! He who died,

Heaven's gates to open wide!

He will wash away my sin,

Let His little child come in."

Revelation 21:25

“On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there.”

Biblerepository.com: This verse offers profound insights into the nature of the eternal state of believers. We can interpret the perpetual opening of the gates as a symbol of God’s unending grace and access to Him . . . No more barriers like sin, shame, or guilt that often keep us at a distance. The open gates remind us that God desires fellowship with us, now and forever . . . Ultimately, the promise of open gates and the absence of night provide us with hope . . . These verses do not only describe life after death but encourage us to embrace hope and light in our present lives. Each time we feel overwhelmed or lost, we should remind ourselves of this promised future and draw strength from it.

Verse Three

“Jesus loves me! loves me still,

Tho' I'm very weak and ill;

From His shining throne on high,

Comes to watch me where I lie.”

Mark 14:38

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Godsbless.ing: This verse highlights the eternal struggle within each of us between our spiritual desires and our human weaknesses. It encapsulates the internal battle we face when trying to do the right thing, stay strong in our beliefs, and resist temptations that may lead us astray. It reminds us of the importance of being alert and spiritually connected to overcome the challenges that come our way by urging us to stay awake and pray . . . Therefore, the verse encourages us to be vigilant, turning to prayer and spiritual strength to navigate through life’s temptations and challenges. We can strive to align our actions with our beliefs and overcome the weaknesses of our flesh.

Verse Four

“Jesus loves me! He will stay,

Close beside me all the way;

If I love Him, when I die,

He will take me home on high."

Psalm 91:14

“Because He loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name."

Godsbless.ing: This verse serves as a comforting reminder to all believers that God is a source of protection and deliverance for those who place their trust in Him. It assures us that as we walk in faith and cling to His promises, He will shield us from harm, rescue us from danger, and grant us a long and fulfilling life. This promise is a testament to God’s faithfulness and love for His people, giving us hope and assurance in times of uncertainty and fear.

Refrain

"Yes, Jesus loves me!

Yes, Jesus loves me!

Yes, Jesus loves me!

The Bible tells me so."

John 11:5

“Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.”

Biblerepository.com: “Jesus loved Martha.” Here, we see Jesus’ love for Martha expressed directly. It’s essential to understand that love can be deeply personal. Jesus doesn’t just love humanity in general; He loves individuals by name. This suggests that we, too, can engage in personal relationships with Him . . . Even in our darkest moments, we can hold onto the comforting truth that we are loved. Jesus’s love provides strength and sustenance . . . Lastly, this verse serves as an illustration of hope. The eventual resurrection of Lazarus signals an overarching message: death and despair do not have the final say. Jesus’s love overcame the grave. When we face challenges, we can remember this story and understand that hope and renewal are always available through Christ.

  

I am indebted to the following resources:

HymnsForWorship.org

Umcdiscipleship.org

By His Grace . . . 

"My Savior First of All"

 

“My Savior First of All”

Fanny Crosby is a well-known name in the field of hymn writers. She is considered the hymn queen, writing 9,000 hymns. She didn’t start writing until she was 40 years old.

"My Savior First of All" is one of the most beloved hymns penned by Crosby, the blind hymn writer whose spiritual insight has touched millions. This hymn expresses the hope and joy of heaven, not primarily because of its splendor or reunion with loved ones, but because Christ Himself will be there. The central image in the song is the moment of seeing Jesus and recognizing Him by the print of the nails in His hands.

You can read Crosby’s biographical story under the “Blog Archive” on the right side of this page, in the following hymn studies: November 2023, “Redeemed, How I Love to Proclaim It;” October 2024, “Blessed Assurance,” and March 2025, “I Am Thine, O Lord.”  I’ve included here a story of how “My Savior First of All” came to be written.

“In Western New York, near Lake Erie, there is a Christian camp called Camp Chataqua. For many years, there were week-long Bible Conferences held on the property. Crosby took part in these conferences for at least one week per year. It was always a special week when Crosby would attend because people could get acquainted with her personally.

“One such week at Camp Chataqua, she met Pastor John Sweney from New York, who was a hymn writer and composer of music. Fanny was sitting in a rocking chair on the front porch of the hotel on a hot summer evening. John introduced himself to her and asked if he could sit with her for a while. Fanny agreed, and the two found common ground because both of them were interested in hymn writing.

“Fanny said to John, ‘Do you know that if at birth I had been able to make one petition to my Creator, it would have been that I should be born blind?’ John asked, ‘Why?’

“Fanny Crosby responded, ‘Because, when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior.’ John said, ‘Fanny, you have been blind all of your life. Since you have never seen anyone, when you get to Heaven, how will you know who Jesus is?’

“’That’s easy’, said Crosby. ‘I will just walk all over heaven and ask people if I may see their hands. When I see Jesus’ nail prints in His hands, I will know who He is.’

“’That is a tremendous thought. Could you put those thoughts into a poem so I may write some music that fits them?’ asked John. ‘It is late and I am tired. I am going to go to my room to rest. I will talk with you in the morning.’ replied Crosby.

“The next day John saw Crosby in the dining room and asked her if she had given any thought to his request. Fanny handed John a piece of paper with the words that her secretary had recorded for her.

“Thus, the hymn 'My Savior First of All' was written.”

Fanny J. Crosby, though deprived of physical sight, looked forward to the day when her eyes would be opened in glory and Jesus would be the first face she would ever see.

Verse One

“When my life work is ended, and I cross the swelling tide,

When the bright and glorious morning I shall see;

I shall know my Redeemer when I reach the other side,

And His smile will be the first to welcome me.”

John 5:24

“Very truly I tell you, whoever hears My Word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

Biblerepository.com: The promise of eternal life serves as a significant cornerstone for our faith. It’s not confined to a future hope; rather, it begins now. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we receive a taste of His eternal life. This isn’t just about going to Heaven when we die. It involves walking in a relationship with God today, filled with joy, peace, and purpose. We are called to experience a life that reflects His love and grace, bringing light into the dark places of our world.

Enduringword.com: Jesus explained to the astonished religious leaders that those who heard His Word would have everlasting life. They would have the life connected with eternity and have that life now.

Isaiah 60:19

“The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: Because of the exceeding brightness, splendor, and luster of the divine majesty of Christ, who will appear personally among His people, neither sun nor moon will be able to give any light: as the light of a candle is made useless and unnecessary by the light of the sun, so the light of the sun and moon will be made useless and unnecessary by the vastly superior light and glory of Christ; 

Verse Two

“Oh, the soul thrilling rapture when I view His blessèd face,

And the luster of His kindly beaming eye;

How my full heart will praise Him for the mercy, love and grace,

That prepare for me a mansion in the sky.”

John 14:2

“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?”

Enduringword.com: Jesus spoke with complete confidence about heaven, here spoken of as His Father’s house. Jesus didn’t wonder about the life beyond this earth; He knew it and told His disciples that there was room for all in heaven (many mansions) . . . Whatever dwelling place God has for us in heaven, it will be as glorious as a mansion . . . There will be many such dwelling places. Jesus could see what the disciples never could – millions upon millions, even billions from every tribe, language, nation in His Father’s house. He may have even smiled when He said, many mansions – many indeed!

2 Corinthians 4:6

“For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”

Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible: The only true knowledge of God which is available to people is comprehended in the life and teachings of the Son of God. As John Wesley put it: "It is more useful for us to behold God as He appears in His only-begotten Son, than to investigate His secret essence” . . .  Paul's allusion seems to be the fact that he had seen the blessed face of the Son of God in the blinding light that overwhelmed him on the road to Damascus, and that he unhesitatingly identified the face of Christ with the glory of God.

Verse Three

“Oh, the dear ones in glory, how they beckon me to come,

And our parting at the river I recall;

To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home;

But I long to meet my Savior first of all.”

Can you image seeing Jesus for the first time? Having Him right in front of you and listening to His words. Just the display of glory upon Him will be so bright we will be filled with awe. It will be a moment hard to believe. We have wanted it for so long and now it is here. His presence. We are with Him. In the land of milk and honey. A place so beautiful it will be hard to take it all in. The sweet vale of Eden. God’s masterpiece. Our hearts will be full with thanksgiving. God’s divine promise is fulfilled.

Verse Four

“Through the gates to the city in a robe of spotless white,

He will lead me where no tears will ever fall;

In the glad song of ages I shall mingle with delight;

But I long to meet my Savior first of all.”

Revelation 22:14

“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.”

Biblerepository.com: Revelation 22:14 talks about a very important blessing that comes from following God’s commandments. It promises us that if we keep His commandments, we will have the right to the tree of life. This tree is a symbol of eternal life, joy, and closeness to God. We can see this tree in the Garden of Eden and in the new heaven and new earth described later in Revelation. The verse shows us the importance of living righteously as we prepare for eternal life with God . . . In understanding this verse, we must think about what it means to “wash our robes.” This phrase suggests a cleansing from sin, which is essential for anyone wanting to enter God’s Kingdom. Our robes represent our lives and actions which need to be cleaned through the sacrifice of Jesus. This cleansing allows us to be pure, making it possible to approach God without sin staining our lives, much like clothing that is free of dirt.

Psalm 116:8

“For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.”

Godsbless.ing: “My eyes from tears,” this phrase symbolizes the profound act of God wiping away our tears, offering comfort and healing in times of sorrow. It mirrors the promise in Revelation 21:4 of a future where all pain and suffering will be eradicated, showcasing God’s enduring love and compassion for His people.

Refrain

“I shall know Him, I shall know Him,

And redeemed by His side I shall stand,

I shall know Him, I shall know Him,

By the print of the nails in His hand.”

Luke 1:68

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because He has come to His people and redeemed them.”

The phrase “He has come to His people and redeemed theme” carries profound meaning. To “come” means more than just a casual encounter; it signifies God’s active intervention in human affairs. In biblical terms, divine visitation often implies a deep relational connection and a purposeful approach to help or deliver. Zechariah highlights that God has not abandoned His people but has come to their aid. This action reveals God’s commitment to His promises, especially the promise of redemption that was foretold throughout the Old Testament.

This hymn expresses the hope and joy of heaven, not primarily because of its splendor or reunion with loved ones, but because Christ Himself will be there. It captures the Christian's anticipation of eternity and the surpassing joy of finally seeing Jesus.

 By His Grace . . . 

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Enjoyingthejourney.org

Hymnallibrary.org

Wordwisebiblestudies.com

"We're Marching to Zion"

 

We’re Marching to Zion

Issac Watts, a name well known for his many great hymns which include “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” wrote this fine hymn. He is recognized as the "Godfather of English Hymnody." Many of his hymns remain in use today and have been translated into numerous languages.

Watts displayed a propensity for rhyme from an early age. He was once asked why he had his eyes open during prayers, to which he responded: “A little mouse for want of stairs, ran up a rope to say its prayers.” He received corporal punishment for this, to which he cried: “O father, father, pity take, And I will no more verses make.”

As a teenager he complained to his father about how boring the songs of the day were. His father challenged him to write something better. Hence, a hymn writer was born. He would write at least 750 songs over the course of life.

This hymn was written in response to a trend in the churches of his day.  Many people were opposed to singing hymns in the church.  They would only want to sing the Psalms and other parts of Scripture.  Churches accommodated and they would sing the Psalms and the Scripture at the beginning of a service, and then after the sermon, they would sing hymns.  Many people would walk out of the church when the hymns were sung in protest.

Not a lot is known about Watts’ early years. He was born in 1674, in England. Watts, whose father was a Nonconformist, (a member of a Protestant Church in England that dissents from the established Anglican Church), studied at the Dissenting Academy at Stoke Newington.

He became tutor to the family of Sir John Hartopp of Stoke Newington and of Freeby, Leicestershire, and preached his first sermons in the family chapel at Freeby. He was appointed assistant to the minister of Mark Lane Independent Chapel, in London, and became full pastor in 1702. He was an inspiring preacher.

As Isaac Watts quietly pastored Mark Lane Chapel, the growing popularity of his hymns was causing a tempest. “Christian congregations have shut out divinely inspired Psalms,” one man complained, “and taken in Watts’ flights of fancy.” The issue of singing hymns versus Psalms split churches, including the one in Bedford, England, once pastored by John Bunyan.

Many mocked Watts for writing such humanly composed songs rather than just Psalms or Bible verses. They referred to his works as “Watts’ Whims."

From the verses we can see how Watts not only wanted the singer to communicate the joy of what was to come through eternal life in heaven, but also the blessings of God on earth. An allusion to John Bunyan’s popular devotional classic The Pilgrims Progress (1678) is found in the final stanza calling attention to the Christian journey toward Zion and a triumphant entry into “Immanuel’s ground.”

This rousing hymn is a reminder that the believer’s journey is to another world. Too often, we Christians, forget our calling and journey. When we view this world as temporary and not so lovely, perhaps we will start singing and marching to Zion. God and this world’s system has a way of making us want to.

More than 100 years after the writing of this hymn, Robert Lowry composed a new tune and refrain for Watts’ verses. Lowry was a Baptist pastor in Brooklyn and a well-known author and composer of gospel hymns. However, he often said he’d “rather preach than write.” He’s probably most famous for writing the words and music for “Shall We Gather at the River?”

Lowry was ministering and teaching during the Civil War, which was also a time when revivalism was rising in America. He was impressed with Watts’ text, but he wanted a musical setting that expressed the enthusiasm of the American revival movement. He adapted the text, composed a new tune, and called it “We’re Marching to Zion.”

Verse One

“Come, we that love the Lord,

And let our joys be known;

Join in a song with sweet accord,

Join in a song with sweet accord

And thus surround the throne, And thus surround the throne.” 

Psalm 107:22

“Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of His works with songs of joy.”

Scripturesavvy.com: The phrase “songs of joy” signifies the emotional response we should embody while giving thanks. Rejoicing is not merely a feeling; it is also an action. When we rejoice, we celebrate. The emphasis is placed on joy, demonstrating that our faith is not just about solemnity; it is also about the joyful exuberance that comes from a relationship with God who cares for us deeply . . . Gratitude is meant to be shared. The idea of declaring God’s works signifies that our stories of faith are powerful tools. We can share our experiences with friends, family, or even strangers as a way to encourage others. Sharing our testimonies can help others see how God has been faithful and working in their lives, even if they may not recognize it immediately. 

Verse Two

“Let those refuse to sing,

Who never knew our God;

But children of the heavenly King,

But children of the heavenly King,

May speak their joys abroad, May speak their joys abroad.”

2 Corinthians 4:4

“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

Godsbless.ing: Paul delves into the spiritual battle that is at play in the dissemination of the gospel in this section. He acknowledges that there are those who do not receive or understand the gospel message not because of its content but because they are blinded by the enemy, referring to Satan as the “god of this age.” This highlights the spiritual dimension of unbelief and the forces at work to hinder people from coming to faith. It underscores the importance of prayer, spiritual warfare, and the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit in helping unbelievers to see the truth of the gospel.

Psalm 40:5

“Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with You; were I to speak and tell of Your deeds, they would be too many to declare.”

Scripturesavvy.com: By sharing stories of God’s goodness in our community, we inspire hope and strengthen our faith. Through conversations about God’s marvelous works, we bolster one another during tough times. The act of remembering and thanking God for His past actions allows us to enhance our future trust in Him.

Verse Three

“The hill of Zion yields,

A thousand sacred sweets,

Before we reach the heavenly fields,

Before we reach the heavenly fields,

Or walk the golden streets, Or walk the golden streets.”

“’Before we reach the heavenly fields – Because of God’s love for us, He not only has prepared a wonderful place for us when we die, or when we meet Him in the air.  He also provides ‘sacred sweets’ before we reach the ‘heavenly fields.’  Those ‘sacred sweets’ are the daily blessings we receive while on earth.  Another day of life.  Another day to share with one another.  New babies that are born every day.  New joys of helping someone find Christ.  Each of those things are blessings that happen before we get to Heaven, and we ought to be truly grateful for those ‘sacred sweets.’” Hymnoftheweek.net

Revelation 21:21

“The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.”

Studylight.org, Dr, Constable’s Expository Notes: John described the street or pavement of the city probably referring to all the streets since all would be connected. These were pure gold, as pure as transparent glass. Old Testament priests who ministered in Solomon’s temple walked on a gold floor originally. 

Verse Four

“Then let our songs abound,

And every tear be dry;

We’re marching through Emmanuel’s ground,

We’re marching through Emmanuel’s ground,

To fairer worlds on high, To fairer worlds on high.”

“Marching and upward.  We shouldn’t be ‘strolling’ to Zion or ‘wandering’ to Zion.  No, we should be marching – with purpose, with intensity because we know where we are going.  Secondly, we should be marching upward.  Upward to a better place.  Upward to a higher place.  We aren’t heading downhill.  We are marching upward to the beautiful city of God.” Hymnoftheweek.net

Revelation 7:17

“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepherd; ‘He will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

Enduringword.com: In heaven, the redeemed will know no more sorrow or pain. The hurt and the struggle of this earthly life are gone, and tears are a thing of the past, because God will wipe away every tear . . . We also understand from this that every tear will only be wiped away in heaven. On this earth, we have our share of pain and tears to endure and bring to God. He shows His love now with sweet consolation and strength for our tears; but one day – in heaven, not now – He will wipe them away forever.

Chorus

“We’re marching to Zion,

Beautiful, beautiful Zion;

We’re marching upward to Zion,

The beautiful city of God.”

This hymn is a reminder that the believers journey is to another world. Too often, we Christians forget our calling and journey. From these stanzas, we can see how Watts not only wanted the singer to communicate the joy of what was to come through eternal life in heaven, but also the blessings of God on earth.

You can find a complete story of Watts’ life in the hymn study of “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” in February 2024, which can be found down the right side of this blog under the Archives.

I am indebted to the following resources:

hymnoftheweek.net

tomahbaptistchurch.com

umcdiscipleship.org

melodypublications.com

en.wikipedia.org

By His Grace . . .