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.
I shall know...Him, I shall know Him,
As redeem’d by His side I shall stand,
I shall know...Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand.
Oh, the soul-thrilling rapture when I view His blessed face,
And the lustre of His kindly beaming eye:
How my full heart will praise Him for the mercy, love, and grace,
That prepares for me a mansion in the sky!
Oh, the dear ones in glory, how they beckon me to come!
And the parting at the river I recall:
To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home,
But I long to meet my Saviour first of all.
Thro’ the gates to the city in a robe of spotless white,
He will lead me where no tears shall ever fall:
In the glad song of ages I shall mingle with delight:
But I long to meet my Saviour first of all.