Today's Hymn

[Nelson Bradford]

My soul in sad exile was out on life's sea,
So burdened with sin and distressed,
Till I heard a sweet voice saying, "Make me your choice,"
And I entered the haven of rest.

I yielded myself to His tender embrace,
And faith taking hold of the Word,
My fetters fell off, and I anchored my soul.
The Haven of Rest is my Lord.

The song of my soul, since the Lord made me whole,
has been the old story so blest,
Of Jesus who'll save whosoever will
have a home in the haven of rest.

Oh, come to the Savior, He patiently waits
to save by His power divine.
Come, anchor your soul in the haven of rest,
and say, "My Beloved is mine."

Refrain
I've anchored my soul in the haven of rest.
I'll sail the wide seas no more.
The tempest may sweep o'er the wild, stormy deep;
In Jesus I'm safe evermore.

- Henry L. Gilmour, 1890

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus,
No, not one! No, not one!
None else could heal all our soul’s diseases,
No, not one! No, not one!

No friend like Him is so high and holy,
No, not one! No, not one!
And yet no friend is so meek and lowly,
No, not one! No, not one!

There’s not an hour that He is not near us,
No, not one! No, not one!
No night so dark but His love can cheer us,
No, not one! No, not one!

Did ever saint find this Friend forsake him?
No, not one! No, not one!
Or sinner find that He would not take him?
No, not one! No, not one!

Was ever a gift like the Savior given?
No, not one! No, not one!
Will He refuse us a home in heaven?
No, not one! No, not one!

Refrain
Jesus knows all about our struggles,
He will guide till the day is done;
There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus,
No, not one! No, not one!

- Johnson Oatman, Jr., 1890

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life,
Let me more of their beauty see, wonderful words of life;
Words of life and beauty teach me faith and duty.

Christ, the blessed One, gives to all wonderful words of life;
Sinner, list to the loving call, wonderful words of life;
All so freely given, wooing us to heaven.

Sweetly echo the Gospel call, wonderful words of life;
Offer pardon and peace to all, wonderful words of life;
Jesus, only Savior, sanctify us forever.

Refrain
Beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of life,
Beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of life.

- Philip P. Bliss, 1874

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

The whole world was lost
In the darkness of sin;
The Light of the world is Jesus.
Like sunshine at noonday
His glory shone in;
The Light of the world is Jesus.

No darkness have we
Who in Jesus abide;
The Light of the world is Jesus.
We walk in the light
When we follow our Guide;
The Light of the world is Jesus.

Ye dwellers in darkness
With sin blinded eyes -
The Light of the world is Jesus -
Go, wash, at His bidding,
And light will arise.
The Light of the world is Jesus.

No need of the sunlight
In Heaven we’re told;
The Light of the world is Jesus.
The Lamb is the Light
In the city of gold;
The Light of the world is Jesus.

Refrain
Come to the light, ’tis shining for thee.
Sweetly the light has dawned upon me.
Once I was blind, but now I can see.
The Light of the world is Jesus.

- Philip P. Bliss, 1875

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Savior, like a shepherd lead us, much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us, for our use Thy folds prepare.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

We are Thine, Thou dost befriend us, be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us, seek us when we go astray.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Hear, O hear us when we pray.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Hear, O hear us when we pray.

Thou hast promised to receive us, poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us, grace to cleanse and power to free.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! We will early turn to Thee.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! We will early turn to Thee.

Early let us seek Thy favor, early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior, with Thy love our bosoms fill.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Thou hast loved us, love us still.
Blessed Jesus, Blessed Jesus! Thou hast loved us, love us still.

Words attributed to Dorothy A. Thrupp, 1836

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Lord, I am pleading; hear Thou my prayer.
Let me Thy blessed fellowship share.
From day to day Thy servant I’d be
Grant me a closer walk with Thee.

Voices of earth unnumbered I hear;
Cares and perplexing problems are near.
Trusting in Thee, my soul shall be free.
Grant me a closer walk with Thee.

Strong are the foes that conquer I must.
Long is the way, but in Thee I trust.
In my own strength but weakness I see
Grant me a closer walk with Thee.

Glorious Master, King of my soul,
On Thee my burdens gladly I roll.
Thou art my portion eternally
Grant me a closer walk with Thee.

Refrain:
Oh, for a closer walk with Thee!
Near to Thy side I ever would be.
Shield me and hide me;
Constantly guide me
Into a closer walk with Thee.

- Haldor Lillenas, 1924

Copyright © Renewed 1952 by Haldor Lillenas

[Nelson Bradford]

My life, my love I give to Thee,
Thou Lamb of God Who died for me;
O may I ever faithful be,
My Savior and my God!

I now believe Thou dost receive,
For Thou hast died that I might live;
And now henceforth I trust in Thee,
My Savior and my God!

O Thou Who died on Calvary,
To save my soul and make me free,
I’ll consecrate my life to Thee,
My Savior and my God!

Refrain
I’ll live for Him Who died for me,
How happy then my life shall be!
I’ll live for Him Who died for me,
My Savior and my God!

- Ralph E. Hudson, 1882

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O spread the tidings ’round, wherever man is found,
Wherever human hearts and human woes abound;
Let ev’ry Christian tongue proclaim the joyful sound:
The Comforter has come!

The long, long night is past, the morning breaks at last,
And hushed the dreadful wail and fury of the blast,
As o’er the golden hills the day advances fast!
The Comforter has come!

Lo, the great King of kings, with healing in His wings,
To ev’ry captive soul a full deliverance brings;
And through the vacant cells the song of triumph rings;
The Comforter has come!

O boundless love divine! How shall this tongue of mine
To wandering mortals tell the matchless grace divine—
That I, a child of hell, should in His image shine!
The Comforter has come!

Refrain
The Comforter has come, the Comforter has come!
The Holy Ghost from heav’n, the Father’s promise giv’n;
O spread the tidings ’round, wherever man is found—
The Comforter has come!

- Frank Bottome, 1890

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Out of my bondage, sorrow, and night,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy freedom, gladness, and light,
Jesus, I come to Thee;
Out of my sickness, into Thy health,
Out of my want and into Thy wealth,
Out of my sin and into Thyself,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of earth’s sorrows into Thy balm,
Out of life’s storms and into Thy calm,
Out of distress to jubilant psalm,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of unrest and arrogant pride,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy blessed will to abide,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of myself to dwell in Thy love,
Out of despair into raptures above,
Upward for aye on wings like a dove,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of the fear and dread of the tomb,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the joy and light of Thy throne,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of the depths of ruin untold,
Into the peace of Thy sheltering fold,
Ever Thy glorious face to behold,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

- William T. Sleeper, 1887

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O I love to walk with Jesus
Like the publicans of old,
When He gathered them about Him
And the blessed tidings told;
How He came to bring deliverance
To the captives in distress,
Take away our ev’ry burden,
Giving perfect peace and rest.

O I love to walk with Jesus
Like the man of long ago
Who had tarried by the wayside
Near the gates of Jericho,
Jesus heard his cry for mercy,
Gave him back his sight that day,
And immediately he followed
Jesus all along the way.

O I love to walk with Jesus
All the way to Calv’ry’s brow,
Gaze upon that scene of suffering
While my tears of sorrow flow.
There He tells me how He loves me—
Takes my ev’ry sin away;
So I follow Him so gladly,
Lead me anywhere He may.

O sometime I’ll walk with Jesus
In that land of endless day,
When our journey here is over
And we’ve reached our home to stay.
Then I’ll walk with him forever,
Sing His praises o’er and o’er,
And with all the saints in glory
Love, and worship, and adore.

Refrain
I will follow where He leadeth;
I will pasture where He feedeth.
I will follow all the way, Lord.
I will follow Jesus ev’ry day.

- Charles F. Weigle, circa 1903

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

They who know the Savior
shall in Him be strong,
Mighty in the conflict of the right ‘gainst wrong.
This the blessed promise
given in God’s Word,
Doing wondrous exploits, they who know the Lord.

In the midst of battle
be thou not dismayed,
Tho’ the powers of darkness ‘gainst thee are arrayed.
God, thy Strength is with thee,
causing thee to stand;
Heaven’s allied armies wait at thy command.

Brave to bear life’s testing,
strong the foe to meet,
Walking like a hero midst the furnace heat,
Doing wondrous exploits
with the Spirit’s Sword,
Winning souls for Jesus, praise, O praise the Lord!

Refrain
Victory! victory! blessed blood-bought victory!
Victory! Victory! Victory all the time!
As Jehovah liveth, Strength divine He giveth
Unto those who know Him - Victory all the time!

- Lelia N. Morris, 1901

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Cecil Wallace]

They who know the Savior
Nelson,
You did it again!
You slipped in an old hymn that I have not heard/sung before. I enjoyed the words.
Thanks.
And those are mighty big words (in size.) I see that you followed through and used "size 4" per your post last night.
Nice, but more than sufficient for my old eyes. Everyone should be able to read 'em now.
:)

[Nelson Bradford]

O what a wonderful Savior
In Jesus, my Lord, I have found!
Tho’ I had sins without number,
His grace unto me did abound.

When a poor sinner He found me;
No goodness to offer had I.
Often His law I had broken
And merited naught but to die.

Nothing of merit possessing,
All helpless before Him I lay;
But, in the precious blood flowing,
He washed all my sin-stains away.

How can I keep from rejoicing?
I’ll sing of the joy in my soul,
Praising the love of my Savior
While years of eternity roll.

Refrain
His grace aboundeth more.
His grace aboundeth more.
Tho’ sin abounded in my heart,
His grace aboundeth more.

- Kate Ulmer, 1899

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Of Jesus’ love that sought me, when I was lost in sin;
Of wondrous grace that brought me back to His fold again;
Of heights and depths of mercy, far deeper than the sea,
And higher than the heavens, my theme shall ever be.

He trod in old Judea life’s pathway long ago;
The people thronged about Him, His saving grace to know;
He healed the broken hearted, and caused the blind to see;
And still His great heart yearneth in love for even me.

’Twas wondrous love which led Him for us to suffer loss,
To bear without a murmur the anguish of the cross;
With saints redeemed in glory, let us our voices raise,
Till Heav’n and earth re-echo with our Redeemer’s praise.

Refrain
Sweeter as the years go by, sweeter as the years go by,
Richer, fuller, deeper, Jesus’ love is sweeter,
Sweeter as the years go by.

- Leila N. Morris, 1912

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

The path that I have trod
Has brought me nearer God,
Though oft it lead - through sorrow’s gates.
Though not the way I choose,
In my way I might lose
The joy that yet for me awaits.

The cross that I must bear,
If I a crown would wear,
Is not the cross - that I should take;
But since on me ‘tis laid,
I’ll take it unafraid,
And bear it for the Master’s sake.

Submission to the will
Of Him who guides me still
Is surety of His love revealed.
My soul shall rise above
This world in which I move;
I conquer only where I yield.

Refrain:
Not what I wish to be,
Nor where I wish to go,
For who am I that I should choose my way?
The Lord shall choose for me;
‘Tis better far, I know,
So let Him bid me go or stay.

- C. Austin Miles

Copyright © Renewal 1962 - The Rodeheaver Co., Owner

[Nelson Bradford]

Walking in sunlight all of my journey;
Over the mountains, through the deep vale;
Jesus has said, “I’ll never forsake thee,”
Promise divine that never can fail.

Shadows around me, shadows above me,
Never conceal my Savior and Guide;
He is the Light, in Him is no darkness;
Ever I’m walking close to His side.

In the bright sunlight, ever rejoicing,
Pressing my way to mansions above;
Singing His praises gladly I’m walking,
Walking in sunlight, sunlight of love.

Refrain:
Heavenly sunlight, heavenly sunlight,
Flooding my soul with glory divine:
Hallelujah, I am rejoicing,
Singing His praises, Jesus is mine.

- Henry J. Zelley, 1899

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Far dearer than all that the world can impart
Was the message that came to my heart
How that Jesus alone for my sin did atone,
And Calvary covers it all.

The stripes that He bore and the thorns that He wore
Told His mercy and love evermore
And my heart bowed in shame as I call on His name
And Calvary covers it all.

How matchless the grace, when I looked in the face
Of this Jesus, my crucified Lord
My redemption complete, I then found at his feet
And Calvary covers it all.

How blessed the thought that my soul by Him bought,
Shall be His in the glory on high
Where with gladness and song, I’ll be one of the throng
And Calvary covers it all.

Refrain
Calvary covers it all,
My past with its sin and stain.
My guilt and despair Jesus took on Him there
And Calvary covers it all.

- Mrs. Walter G. Taylor, 1934

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

He pardoned my transgressions,
He sanctified my soul,
He honors my confessions,
Since by His blood I’m whole.

He keeps me ev’ry moment
By trusting in His grace;
’Tis through His blest atonement,
That I may see His face.

He brings me through affliction,
He leaves me not alone;
He’s with me in temptation,
He keeps me for His own.

He prospers and protects me,
His blessings ever flow;
He fills me with His glory,
He makes me white as snow.

There’s not a single blessing
Which we receive on earth
That does not come from heaven,
The source of our new birth.

Refrain
It is truly wonderful what the Lord has done!
It is truly wonderful! It is truly wonderful!
It is truly wonderful what the Lord has done!
Glory to His Name.

- Barney E. Warren, 1897

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

You may have noticed that row of hay bales in today's picture. When I turned and took a good look at the ground immediately to my right and between two of those round bales I think I discovered the bedding down area for a deer.

Or two.

There are approx 12" high weeds everywhere in this field, except for this one area - approximately 50 years off the road.

And I betcha if I went there tonight - after day - or early tomorrow morning, before sunrise, I'd find a deer or two.

What do you think?

8-)

[Cecil Wallace]

And I betcha if I went there tonight - after day - or early tomorrow morning, before sunrise, I'd find a deer or two.
What do you think?

Why don't you go check it out. Maybe you'll find a whole family of skunks bedded down (not.)
Its entirely possible that the deer are using that as a bedding site.
After all, it would be like having breakfast in bed.
:fun07
Be sure to give us a report.
(BTW... that's a good pic of the hay/trees. Thanks.
Our trees have some color, but it is kinda hit and miss. The colors are good, but not spectacular. We had a rather windy day on Saturday, and many leaves are now on the ground.

[Nelson Bradford]

Jesus will walk with me down through the valley,
Jesus will walk with me over the plain,
When in the shadow or when in the sunshine,
If He goes with me I shall not complain.

Jesus will walk with me when I am tempted,
Giving me strength as my need may demand,
When in affliction His presence is near me,
I am upheld by His almighty hand.

Jesus will walk with me guarding me ever,
Giving me victory through storm and through strife,
He is my Comforter, Counselor, Leader,
Over the uneven journey of life.

Jesus will walk with me in life's fair morning,
And when the shadows of evening must come.
Living or dying, He will not forsake me,
Jesus will walk with me all the way home.

Refrain:
Jesus will walk with me.
He will talk with me, He will walk with me.
In joy or sorrow, today or tomorrow
I know He will walk with me.

- Haldor Lillenas, 1922

Copyright © 1922. Renewed 1950 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Earthly pleasures vainly call me;
I would be like Jesus;
Nothing worldy shall enthrall me;
I would be like Jesus.

He has broken every fetter,
I would be like Jesus;
That my soul may serve Him better,
I would be like Jesus.

All the way from earth to glory,
I would be like Jesus;
Telling o’er and o’er the story,
I would be like Jesus.

That in heaven He may meet me,
I would be like Jesus;
That His words, “Well done,” may greet me,
I would be like Jesus.

Refrain
Be like Jesus this my song,
In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus all day long!
I would be like Jesus.

- James Rowe, 1865-1933

Copyright © 1912 by E. O. Excell. Renewed 1940 by The Rodeheaver Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

So precious is Jesus, my Savior, my King;
His praise all the day long with rapture I sing.
To Him in my weakness for strength I can cling,
For He is so precious to me.

He stood at my heart’s door ’mid sunshine and rain,
And patiently waited an entrance to gain.
What shame that so long He entreated in vain,
For He is so precious to me.

I stand on the mountain of blessing at last,
No cloud in the heavens a shadow to cast,
His smile is upon me; the valley is past,
For He is so precious to me.

I praise Him because He appointed a place
Where some day, through faith in His wonderful grace,
I know I shall see Him, shall look on His face,
For He is so precious to me.

Chorus
For He is so precious to me;
For He is so precious to me.
’Tis heaven below, my Redeemer to know,
For He is so precious to me.

- Charles H. Gabriel, 1902

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O what a wonderful, wonderful day, day I will never forget;
After I'd wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Savior I met.
O what a tender, compassionate friend, He met the need of my heart;
Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling,
He made all the darkness depart.

Born of the Spirit with life from above into God's family divine,
Justified fully thru Calvary's love, O what a standing is mine!
And the transaction so quickly was made, when as a sinner I came,
Took of the offer, of grace He did proffer,
He saved me, O praise His dear name!

Now I've a hope that will surely endure after the passing of time;
I have a future in heaven for sure there in those mansions sublime.
And it's because of that wonderful day, when at the cross I believed;
Riches eternal and blessings supernal,
from His precious hand I received.

Refrain
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul,
When at the cross the Savior made me whole;
My sins were washed away
and my night was turned to day,
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul!

- John W. Peterson, 1961

Copyright © 1961. Renewed 1989 by John W. Peterson Music Co.

[Cecil Wallace]

O what a wonderful, wonderful day, day I will never forget;

You have posted the hymn that is right up there at the top of my list.
When I first heard this song back in the 60's when it was still "new", it quickly became a favorite.
We have an opportunity at church to submit our favorites for use in future services, so just this past Sunday, I submitted this one for consideration.

Thanks for posting. This one will be on my mind a good bit today.:fav18

[Nelson Bradford]

Upon life’s boundless ocean where mighty billows roll,
I’ve fixed my hope in Jesus, blest anchor of my soul;
When trials fierce assail me as storms are gathering o’er,
I rest upon His mercy and trust Him more.

He keeps my soul from evil and gives me blessed peace,
His voice hath stilled the waters and bid their tumult cease;
My Pilot and Deliverer, to Him I all confide,
For always when I need Him, He’s at my side.

He is my Friend and Savior, in Him my anchor’s cast,
He drives away my sorrows and shields me from the blast;
By faith I’m looking upward beyond life’s troubled sea,
There I behold a haven prepared for me.

Refrain
I’ve anchored in Jesus, the storms of life I’ll brave,
I’ve anchored in Jesus, I fear no wind or wave.
I’ve anchored in Jesus, for He hath power to save,
I’ve anchored to the Rock of Ages.

- Lewis E. Jones, 1901

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Jesus loves me! This I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong;
They are weak, but He is strong.

Jesus loves me! This I know,
As He loved so long ago,
Taking children on His knee,
Saying, “Let them come to Me.”

Jesus loves me still today,
Walking with me on my way,
Wanting as a friend to give
Light and love to all who live.

Jesus loves me! He who died
Heaven’s gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin,
Let His little child come in.

Jesus loves me! He will stay
Close beside me all the way;
Thou hast bled and died for me,
I will henceforth live for Thee.

Refrain:
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

- Anna Warner, 1860
Stanzas 2 and 4 by David McGuire. 1929-1971

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

I will sing of my Redeemer,
And His wondrous love to me;
On the cruel cross He suffered,
From the curse to set me free.

I will tell the wondrous story,
How my lost estate to save,
In His boundless love and mercy,
He the ransom freely gave.

I will praise my dear Redeemer,
His triumphant power I’ll tell,
How the victory He giveth
Over sin, and death, and hell.

I will sing of my Redeemer,
And His heav’nly love to me;
He from death to life hath brought me,
Son of God with Him to be.

Refrain
Sing, oh sing, of my Redeemer,
With His blood, He purchased me.
On the cross, He sealed my pardon,
Paid the debt, and made me free.

- Philip P. Bliss, 1876

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

More love to Thee, O Christ, more love to Thee!
Hear Thou the prayer I make on bended knee.
This is my earnest plea: More love, O Christ, to Thee;
More love to Thee, more love to Thee!

Once earthly joy I craved, sought peace and rest;
Now Thee alone I seek, give what is best.
This all my prayer shall be: More love, O Christ to Thee;
More love to Thee, more love to Thee!

Then shall my latest breath whisper Thy praise;
This be the parting cry my heart shall raise;
This still its prayer shall be: More love, O Christ to Thee;
More love to Thee, more love to Thee!

- Elizabeth P. Prentiss, 1856

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Down in the valley with my Savior I would go,
Where the flowers are blooming and the sweet waters flow;
Everywhere He leads me I would follow, follow on,
Walking in His footsteps till the crown be won.

Down in the valley with my Savior I would go,
Where the storms are sweeping and the dark waters flow;
With His hand to lead me I will never, never fear,
Danger cannot fright me if my Lord is near.

Down in the valley, or upon the mountain steep,
Close beside my Savior would my soul ever keep;
He will lead me safely in the path that He has trod,
Up to where they gather on the hills of God.

Refrain
Follow! follow! I would follow Jesus!
Anywhere, everywhere, I would follow on!
Follow! follow! I would follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me I would follow on!

- William O. Cushing, 1878.

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Joys are flowing like a river,
Since the Comforter has come;
He abides with us forever,
Makes the trusting heart His home.

Bringing life and health and gladness,
All around this heavenly Guest,
Banished unbelief and sadness,
Changed our weariness to rest.

Like the rain that falls from heaven,
Like the sunlight from the sky,
So the Holy Ghost is given,
Coming on us from on high.

See, a fruitful field is growing,
Blessed fruit of righteousness;
And the streams of life are flowing
In the lonely wilderness.

What a wonderful salvation,
Where we always see His face!
What perfect habitation,
What a quiet resting place!

Refrain:
Blessed quietness, holy quietness,
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea, He speaks peace to me,
How the billows cease to roll!

- Manie P. Ferguson, 1897

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Some day the silver chord will break,
And I no more as now shall sing;
But O the joy when I shall wake
Within the palace of the King!

Some day my earthly house will fall -
I cannot tell how soon 'twill be;
But this I know - my All in All
Has now a place in heav'n for me.

Some day, when fades the golden sun
Beneath the rosy-tinted west,
My blessed Lord will say, "Well done!"
And I shall enter into rest.

Some day - till then I'll watch and wait,
My lamp all trimmed and burning bright,
That when my Savior opens the gate,
My soul to Him may take its flight.

Refrain:
And I shall see Him face to face,
And tell the story - Saved by grace;
And I shall see Him face to face,
And tell the story - Saved by grace.

- Fanny J. Crosby, 1894

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

There is sunshine in my soul today,
More glorious and bright
Than glows in any earthly sky,
For Jesus is my Light.

There is music in my soul today,
A carol to my King,
And Jesus, listening, can hear
The songs I cannot sing.

There is springtime in my soul today,
For, when the Lord is near,
The dove of peace sings in my heart,
The flowers of grace appear.

There is gladness in my soul today,
And hope and praise and love,
For blessings which He gives me now,
For joys laid up above.

Refrain
O there’s sunshine, blessed sunshine,
When the peaceful, happy moments roll;
When Jesus shows His smiling face,
There is sunshine in the soul.

- Eliza E. Hewitt, 1887

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing;
He chastens and hastens His will to make known.
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.
Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;
So from the beginning the fight we were winning;
Thou, Lord, were at our side, all glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be.
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy Name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!

- Translated by Theodore Baker, 1917

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! Hail Him! Highest archangels in glory;
strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long:

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled and died;
He, our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! Hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows;
love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong:

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Heavenly portals loud with hosannas ring.
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever;
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet and Priest and King!
Christ is coming over the world victorious,
pow'r and glory unto the Lord belong.

Refrain
Praise Him! praise Him!
Tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! praise Him!
Ever in joyful song!

- Fanny Crosby, 1869

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing;
He chastens and hastens His will to make known.
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.
Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;
So from the beginning the fight we were winning;
Thou, Lord, were at our side, all glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant,
And pray that Thou still our Defender will be.
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy Name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!

- Translated by Theodore Baker, 1917

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! Hail Him! Highest archangels in glory;
strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long:

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled and died;
He, our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! Hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows;
love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong:

Praise Him! praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Heavenly portals loud with hosannas ring.
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever;
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet and Priest and King!
Christ is coming over the world victorious,
pow'r and glory unto the Lord belong.

Refrain
Praise Him! praise Him!
Tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! praise Him!
Ever in joyful song!

- Fanny Crosby, 1869

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Come, ye thankful people, come, raise the song of harvest home;
All is safely gathered in, ere the winter storms begin.
God our Maker doth provide for our wants to be supplied;
Come to God’s own temple, come, raise the song of harvest home.

All the world is God’s own field, fruit unto His praise to yield;
Wheat and tares together sown unto joy or sorrow grown.
First the blade and then the ear, then the full corn shall appear;
Lord of harvest, grant that we wholesome grain and pure may be.

For the Lord our God shall come, and shall take His harvest home;
From His field shall in that day all offenses purge away,
Giving angels charge at last in the fire the tares to cast;
But the fruitful ears to store in His garner evermore.

Even so, Lord, quickly come, bring Thy final harvest home;
Gather Thou Thy people in, free from sorrow, free from sin,
There, forever purified, in Thy garner to abide;
Come, with all Thine angels come, raise the glorious harvest home.

- Henry Alford, 1844

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O magnify the Lord with me,
Ye people of His choice.
Let all to whom He lendeth breath
Now in His name rejoice.
For love’s blest revelation,
For rest from condemnation,
For uttermost salvation,
To Him give praise.

O praise Him for His holiness,
His wisdom, and His grace;
Sing praises for His precious blood
Which ransomed all our race.
In tenderness He sought us;
From depths of sin He brought us;
The way of life then taught us,
To Him give praise.

Had I a thousand tongues to sing,
The half could ne’er be told
Of love so rich, so full and free,
Of blessings manifold
Of grace that faileth never,
Peace flowering like a river,
From God, the glorious Giver,
To Him give praise.

Refrain
Let all the people praise Thee.
Let all the people praise Thee.
Let all the people praise Thy name
forever and forevermore.

- Lelia N. Morris, 1906

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Let us break bread together on our knees,
Let us break bread together on our knees.
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord, have mercy on me.

Let us drink the cup together on our knees,
Let us drink the cup together on our knees.
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord, have mercy on me.

Let us praise God together on our knees,
Let us praise God together on our knees.
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord, have mercy on me.

- Words: African-American spiritual

Arr. Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

In times like these you need a Savior,
In times like these you need an anchor;
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid rock!

In times like these you need the Bible,
In times like these O be not idle;
Be very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid rock!

In times like these I have a Savior,
In times like these I have an anchor
I'm very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid rock!

Refrain:
This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He's the One;
This Rock is Jesus, The only One!
I'm very sure, be very sure
Your anchor holds and grips the Solid rock!

- Ruth Caye Jones

Copyright © 1944 Singspiration Music

[Nelson Bradford]

I can hear my Savior calling,
I can hear my Savior calling,
I can hear my Savior calling,
“Take thy cross and follow, follow Me.”

I’ll go with Him through the garden,
I’ll go with Him through the garden,
I’ll go with Him through the garden,
I’ll go with Him, with Him all the way.

I’ll go with Him through the judgment,
I’ll go with Him through the judgment,
I’ll go with Him through the judgment,
I’ll go with Him, with Him all the way.

He will give me grace and glory,
He will give me grace and glory,
He will give me grace and glory,
And go with me, with me all the way.

Refrain
Where He leads me I will follow,
Where He leads me I will follow,
Where He leads me I will follow;
I’ll go with Him, with Him, all the way.

- Ernest W. Blandy, 1890

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

.

[Nelson Bradford]

I love you, Lord and I lift my voice
To worship You - Oh, my soul rejoice!
Take joy my King in what You hear
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear

- Laurie Klein, 1978

Copyright © 1978 House of Mercy Music

[Nelson Bradford]

Beyond the sunset, O blissful morning,
When with our Savior heav'n is begun;
Earth's toiling ended, O glorious dawning,
Beyond the sunset when day is done.

Beyond the sunset, no clouds will gather,
No storms will threaten, no fears annoy;
O day of gladness, O day unending,
Beyond the sunset eternal joy!

Beyond the sunset, a hand will guide me
To God the Father whom I adore;
His glorious presence, His words of welcome,
Will be my portion on that fair shore.

Beyond the sunset, O glad reunion,
With our dear loved ones who've gone before;
In that fair homeland we'll know no parting,
Beyond the sunset forever more!

- Virgil P. Brock

Copyright © Word Music, Inc

(Today's hymn/picture combo suggested by my friend, Cecil Wallace - thanx, Ceece!)

[Cecil Wallace]

Beyond the sunset

(Today's hymn/picture combo suggested by my friend, Cecil Wallace - thanx, Ceece!)
You are welcome, Nelson.
You took a neat pic, I only suggested the first hymn that came to mind.
Good job of "catching" that sun in just the right position.

You are appreciated here on NazNet.
Keep those hymn/pics coming!
:fav18

[Nelson Bradford]

There’s a sacred and hallowed retreat,
Where my soul finds a fellowship sweet,
Where the Lord of my life I may meet,
In the garden of my heart.

There is naught can disturb or molest,
There my spirit finds comfort and rest,
And my soul is no longer distressed
In the garden of my heart.

Shut away from earth’s strife and its din,
And protected from soul staining sin,
For my Savior is dwelling within,
In the garden of my heart.

There the dove of sweet peace always sings,
And my faith ever trustingly clings;
And the chime of sweet happiness rings
In the garden of my heart.

Refrain
In the cool of the day He walks with me,
In the rose bordered way He talks with me;
In love’s holy union,
And sacred communion,
In the garden of my heart.

- Haldor Lillenas, 1919

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Cecil Wallace]

In the garden of my heart.

Either my forgetter is getting better, or my rememberer is getting worse, but I sure don't remember hearing/singing this neat hymn.

Thanks for sharing these words with NazNet.
:fav18

[Carol Lombard]

Hmm...Cecil...this song has been around it seems like - forever. Can't believe you hadn't heard it.

[Dana Grant]

Hmm...Cecil...this song has been around it seems like - forever. Can't believe you hadn't heard it.

(since he's been around forever, too.........)






::::::::::::running very fast out of this thread:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::




:cool:

[Cecil Wallace]

(since he's been around forever, too.........)

::::::::::::running very fast out of this thread:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


OUCH!!!
I am wounded.
Sorely.
But I guess that you gotta call 'em as you see 'em.

You can run, but you cannot hide out there in "no trees" Arizona.

I knew that you could/would say something like that about our mutual "friend" in Illinois, but not about me. :basic03

Back to the hymn... that's what we were "talking" about, wasn't it?
It seems that I just haven't been exposed to some of the more recognizable hymns have been around for a long time. (Even if I AM 73 years old, and ALMOST older than dirt.)

:p

[Nelson Bradford]

whatever, I CANNOT believe you've never heard that hymn, Ceece.

Good grief.

The first time my mother hummed that tune to me I turned over in my cradle.

HONEST!

8-)

(Or something like that)

[Cecil Wallace]

whatever, I CANNOT believe you've never heard that hymn, Ceece.
Maybe I'm not old enough, huh?
Remember, I was not raised in a church-going family. I think that I was in church maybe 6 times in my first 16 years.

The first time my mother hummed that tune to me I turned over in my cradle.
HONEST!
I believe you, and I wish that I had been so fortunate.

[Nelson Bradford]

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on Thee.”
When the shadows come and darkness falls,
He giveth inward peace.

In the shadow of the mighty Rock
I lay me down to sleep;
He who watches over Israel
So faithfully will keep.

‘Tis the promise of the Holy One;
“My peace I give to thee.”
Tho’ the storms of life in fury rage,
Thy Refuge sure is He.

Refrain
O He is the only perfect Resting Place!
He giveth perfect peace.
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on Thee.”

- Stanza 1, Vivian A. Kretz, 20th c.; stanzas 2 & 3, Floyd Hawkins, 1960

Copyright © 1960, Renewed 1968 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior,
Trying to follow our Savior and King;
Shaping our lives by His blessed example,
Happy, how happy, the songs that we bring.

Pressing more closely to Him Who is leading,
When we are tempted to turn from the way;
Trusting the arm that is strong to defend us,
Happy, how happy, our praises each day.

Walking in footsteps of gentle forbearance,
Footsteps of faithfulness, mercy, and love,
Looking to Him for the grace freely promised,
Happy, how happy, our journey above.

Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior,
Upward, still upward, we follow our Guide;
When we shall see Him, “the King in His beauty,”
Happy, how happy, our place at His side.

Refrain
How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,
Stepping in the light, stepping in the light,
How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior,
Led in paths of light.

- Eliza E. Hewitt, circa 1890

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Garth Lahana]

Thanks Nelson

I loved this last hymn - no matter how tough things are, Jesus is always there for us! Thank you

Garth

[Nelson Bradford]

The Name of Jesus is so sweet,
I love its music to repeat;
It makes my joys full and complete,
The precious Name of Jesus!

I love the Name of Him Whose heart
Knows all my griefs and bears a part;
Who bids all anxious fears depart,
I love the Name of Jesus!

That Name I fondly love to hear,
It never fails my heart to cheer;
Its music dries the falling tear,
Exalt the Name of Jesus!

No word of man can ever tell
How sweet the Name I love so well;
O let its praises ever swell,
O praise the Name of Jesus!

Refrain
“Jesus,” O how sweet the Name!
“Jesus,” every day the same;
“Jesus,” let all saints proclaim
Its worthy praise forever!

- William C. Martin (1864-1914)

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

The blessed Jesus loved me
Before I ever came
And tasted His salvation
Or thought upon His name
He called me and He wooed me
And I am His today
As hand in hand we journey
Along the heavenward way.

Each day the path grows brighter,
And I can almost see
The mansions of the faithful,
Where I so soon shall be.
In that celestial city
I’ll sing unended praise
To my divine Redeemer,
Through everlasting days.

O soul without this Savior,
Why will you longer roam,
When Jesus still invites you,
“Ye weary ones, come home”?
Today, if you accept Him,
He offers you His grace;
His providence shall guide you
Until you see His face.

Refrain
I love Him better every day.
I love Him better every day.
Close by His side I will abide
I love Him better every day.

- Thoro Harris, 1926

Copyright © 1926, Renewed 1954 and 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

.

[Nelson Bradford]

Wonderful story of love;
Tell it to me again;
Wonderful story of love;
Wake the immortal strain!
Angels with rapture announce it,
Shepherds with wonder receive it;
Sinner, O won’t you believe it?
Wonderful story of love.

Wonderful story of love;
Though you are far away;
Wonderful story of love;
Still He doth call today;
Calling from Calvary’s mountain,
Down from the crystal bright fountain,
E’en from the dawn of creation,
Wonderful story of love.

Wonderful story of love;
Jesus provides a rest;
Wonderful story of love;
For all the pure and blest,
Rest in those mansions above us,
With those who’ve gone on before us,
Singing the rapturous chorus,
Wonderful story of love.

Refrain
Wonderful! Wonderful!
Wonderful, wonderful story of love.

- John M. Driver, 1892

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Jesus found me when afar I wandered,
Brought me pardon from the throne above,
Gave me peace that passeth understanding,
Joy unspeakable and full of love.

Thro’ His Word He taught me full salvation—
How His blood could cleanse and sanctify.
Then by faith I plunged into the fountain;
Now I’m looking for that home on high.

Trials many will beset my pathway,
And temptations I shall surely meet;
But my Savior promised grace to help me
Till I lay my trophies at His feet.

Refrain:
Praise the Lord! My soul is filled with glory!
Praise the Lord! I love to tell the story
Of His grace that keeps and gives me vict’ry,
And I’m shouting, “Glory!” till I get home.

- John M. Harris, 1905

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise.

Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might;
Thy justice, like mountains, high soaring above
Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love.

To all, life Thou givest, to both great and small;
In all life Thou livest, the true life of all;
We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree,
And wither and perish—but naught changeth Thee.

Great Father of glory, pure Father of light,
Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight;
But of all Thy rich graces this grace, Lord, impart
Take the veil from our faces, the vile from our heart.

All laud we would render; O help us to see
’Tis only the splendor of light hideth Thee,
And so let Thy glory, almighty, impart,
Through Christ in His story, Thy Christ to the heart.

- Walter C. Smith, 1876.

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

We have heard the joyful sound: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land, climb the mountains, cross the waves;
Onward! ’tis our Lord’s command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

Waft it on the rolling tide: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Tell to sinners far and wide: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Sing, you islands of the sea; echo back, you ocean caves;
Earth shall keep her jubilee: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

Sing above the battle strife: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
By His death and endless life Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Shout it brightly through the gloom, when the heart for mercy craves;
Sing in triumph o’er the tomb: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

Give the winds a mighty voice: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Let the nations now rejoice: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Shout salvation full and free; highest hills and deepest caves;
This our song of victory: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

- Priscilla J. Owens, 1868

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong
Ye clouds that sail in Heaven along,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou rising moon, in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice!

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
Make music for thy Lord to hear,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
That givest man both warmth and light.

And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on Him cast your care!

Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son,
And praise the Spirit, Three in One!

Refrain
O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

- Francis of Assisi, circa 1225

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!

All Thy works with joy surround Thee, earth and heaven reflect Thy rays,
Stars and angels sing around Thee, center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain, flowery meadow, flashing sea,
Singing bird and flowing fountain call us to rejoice in Thee.

Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blessed,
Wellspring of the joy of living, ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother, all who live in love are Thine;
Teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine.

Mortals, join the happy chorus, which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us, brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward, victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us sun-ward in the triumph song of life.

- Henry J. van Dyke, 1907

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

.

[Nelson Bradford]

What Child is this who, laid to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?

Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

Refrain:
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

- William C. Dix, 1865

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay tending their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

They look-ed up and saw a star
Bright in the east, beyond them far;
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.

And by the light of that same star
Three Wise Men came from country far;
To seek for a King was their intent,
And to follow the star wher-e’er it went.

This star drew nigh to the northwest,
Over Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay.

Then entered in those wise men three,
Full reverently upon the knee,
And offered there, in His presence,
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

Refrain
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.

- Traditional English Carol

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

God rest ye merry, gentlemen; let nothing you dismay.
Remember, Christ our Savior was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r when we were gone astray.

From God our heav'nly Father, a blessed angel came;
And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same;
How that in Bethlehem was born The Son of God by name.

“Fear not, then,” said the angel, “Let nothing you affright
This day is born a Savior of a pure virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him from Satan’s power and might.”

The shepherds at those tidings rejoiced much in mind,
And left their flocks a-feeding in tempest, storm and wind,
And went to Bethlehem straight-way The Son of God to find.

And when they came to Bethlehem where our dear Savior lay,
They found Him in a manger where oxen feed on hay;
His mother Mary kneeling, Unto the Lord did pray.

Refrain:
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy!
O tidings of comfort and joy!

English Carol - 18th Century

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him, born the King of angels!

Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation;
O sing, all ye bright hosts of heav’n above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest!

Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning;
O Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing!

Refrain
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.

- John F. Wade, 1751

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Angels from the realms of glory,
Wing your flight o’er all the earth;
Ye who sang creation’s story
Now proclaim Messiah’s birth.

Shepherds, in the field abiding,
Watching o’er your flocks by night,
God with man is now residing;
Yonder shines the Infant Light:

Sages, leave your contemplations,
Brighter visions beam afar;
Seek the great Desire of nations;
Ye have seen His natal star.

Saints, before the altar bending,
Watching long in hope and fear;
Suddenly the Lord, descending,
In His temple shall appear.

Refrain
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.

- James Montgomery, 1816

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light;
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is giv’n;
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heav’n.
No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray;
Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel!

- Phillips Brooks, 1835 - 1893

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold;
“Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From heaven’s all gracious King.”
The world in solemn stillness lay,
To hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come
With peaceful wings unfurled,
And still their heavenly music floats
O’er all the weary world;
Above its sad and lowly plains,
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever over its babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.

And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow,
Look up! for glad and golden hours
Come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
And hear the angels sing!

For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophet bards foretold,
When with the ever circling years
Comes round the age of gold,
When peace shall over all the earth
Its ancient splendors fling,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.

- Edmund H. Sears, 1810-1876

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains.

Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?

Come to Bethlehem and see
Christ whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Refrain
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Traditional French Carol
Translated to English by James Chadwick

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.”

Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

- Henry W. Longfellow, 1863

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!”
Joyful, all ye nations rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”

Christ, by highest Heav’n adored!
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Long desired, behold Him come,
Offspring of the virgin’s womb.
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;
Hail th’incarnate Deity,
Pleased as man with men to dwell,
Jesus, our Immanuel!

Hail the heav’nly Prince of Peace!
Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Ris’n with healing in His wings.
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that man no more may die.
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth.

Refrain
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”

- Charles Wesley, 1739

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O come let us adore Him
O come let us adore Him
O come let us adore Him
Christ the Lord.

We’ll praise His name forever
We’ll praise His name forever
We’ll praise His name forever
Christ the Lord.

We’ll give Him all the glory
We’ll give Him all the glory
We’ll give Him all the glory
Christ the Lord.

For He alone is worthy
For He alone is worthy
For He alone is worthy
Christ the Lord.

- John F. Wade, 1751

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

It was just before Christmas in 1818. In a village high in the Austrian
Alps, Joseph Mohr, the priest and his organist, Franz Gruber, agreed that
the perfect Christmas hymn had not yet been written. Father Mohr had this
goal in mind when he received word that the church organ had broken down and
would not be available for the special Christmas Eve mass.

Since he did not want to disappoint his faithful flock, he decided that he
must write his own Christmas hymn in order to have music for the service.
Upon completing the text, he took his words to Gruber who wholeheartedly
endorsed it.

Gruber composed a simple but beautiful melody which blended perfectly with
the spirit of Mohr's words. They sang it to the accompaniment of Gruber's
guitar. The hymn made a deep impact upon the parishioners.

The hymn might have remained an obscure Alpine folk song if it weren't for
an organ repairman. When he came to repair the organ there was a copy of
the carol lying there. He was so impressed by it that he spread it all
around the region of Tyrol. Soon touring groups began to sing it in
concerts, spreading its popularity even further. Today it is sung in all
major languages of the world and is one of the most beloved of all Christmas
songs.

(Above commentary courtesy my friend, J. D . Sherrow - thanx, JD! -neb)

Silent night, holy night,
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon virgin mother and Child.
Holy Infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight;
Glories stream from heaven afar,
Heavenly hosts sing “Alleluia!
Christ the Savior is born,
Christ the Savior is born!”

Silent night, holy night,
Son of God, love’s pure light;
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

- Joseph Mohr, 1818

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

How many times have you seen this? Some of the smallest - and cutest -
children of your local church line up on the platform for their portion of
the annual Christmas program. Many of the little girls are wearing red
dresses and some of the boys, with their shirt tails already pulled out (of
course) may be wearing a white shirt and tie.

Parents (and some grandparents) are leaning from one side to the other just
to make sure they capture this marvelous scene on film and those sweet
little innocent children begin to sing:

“Away in a manger, no crib for a bed.
The little Lord Jesus, laid down His sweet head.”

Today’s song of Christmas appeals to the young and old alike. It’s one of
the first carols learned in early childhood.

At one time this carol was titled “Luther’s Cradle Hymn” based on the
speculation that Martin Luther wrote it for his own children. In reality,
the true author of stanzas one and two are not known however a Methodist
minister, Dr. John T. McFarland, added stanza three - “Be near me, Lord
Jesus, I ask Thee to stay” - for use at a church children’s day program.

“Oh Lord! Let us not stray from the truth of this wonderful carol. May the
prayer written by Rev. McFarland become ours this joyful and soul-changing
season.”

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the Baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes;
I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
And stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray;
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven to live with Thee there.

Stanzas 1 and 2, anonymous
Stanza 3 by John Thomas McFarland, 1851-1913

Copyright © 1972 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Cecil Wallace]

Thanks, Nelson, for a neat Christmas song and story.
I've enjoyed all these Christmas Carol posts.

[Nelson Bradford]

Appreciate your very kind words.
-neb

[Nelson Bradford]

In the little village of Bethlehem,
There lay a Child one day;
And the sky was bright with a holy light
O’er the place where Jesus lay.

’Twas a humble birthplace, but O how much
God gave to us that day,
From the manger bed what a path has led,
What a perfect, holy way.

Refrain
Alleluia! O how the angels sang!
Alleluia! How it rang!
And the sky was bright with a holy light;
’Twas the birthday of a King.

- William H. Neidlinger, b.1900

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!
Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!
O night divine! O night when Christ was born!
O night divine! O night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here came the wise men from the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger,
In all our trials born to be our Friend.
He knows our need - to our weakness is no stranger.
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother,
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His name forever!
His pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!
His pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!

- John S. Dwight, 1813-1893

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.

[Nelson Bradford]

Have you noticed how seemingly most people are more friendly this time of
year? Complete strangers are holding doors open for others at the mall.
People greet one another with “Merry Christmas” or the politically correct
“Happy Holiday” which makes me grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr and then respond with
“Merry Christmas!”

Years ago I was a member of a local church board and the treasurer, wishing
to discuss the Christmas present issue for the parsonage family asked, “And
what shall we do about Christmas?”

Another member said, “Let’s have one!”

That brought a good laugh but ever so often I think about that.

“Let’s have Christmas!”

YES! Let’s have Christmas the way it’s meant to be celebrated, down to the
very depths of our soul.

Let’s let Christmas change us this year, shall we?

Let’s be more joyful - year around - even with that person who cuts us off
at the gas pump when we’ve been waiting in line for too long (that happened
to me fairly recently and I - very honestly - was not joyful!)

Let’s be more joyful - every month of the year - holding doors open,
greeting complete strangers with words of welcome and joy, shall we?

And let’s sing today’s carol more often, shall we? In the shower even, when
no one else is listening - hopefully.

Why don’t these words fit just as well in July as they do in December?

Why can’t we be just as joyful about His arrival on earth and in our hearts
when it’s as hot as it is cold?

(I know that sentence would not get a passing grade from any English
teacher, but it’s the best I can do, at the moment.)

What I’m attempting - and perhaps failing - to convey this Christmas
morning, is that we all, everyone of us, could probably be more joyful.

Why?

Why should we?

Because HE has come, praise His name.

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

- Isaac Watts, 1719

Copyright © 1993 by Lillenas Publishing Co.