The Minstrel of Zion ‎#72

72. How blest the place

1 How blest the place where Jesus is!
The fountain head of life and bliss;
Celestial bands, assist my flight,
And bear me to those realms of light.
On high, above yon vault of blue,
That happier land appears in view.
Oh! were I once from earth away!
Through all its blissful groves to stray.

2 Those blissful groves, so green and fair,
Perennial fruit and blossoms bear;
And angel forms of various grade,
Enjoy their ever-peaceful shade.
The seraph tall, with ardour bright,
Beloved among the sons of light;
And cherub grave, of thoughtful mien,
Stray o'er those hills of evergreen.

3 But, oh! to my fond heart more dear,
Those whom I loved and cherished here,
In white and spotless robes, I see,
From pain and death for ever free,
Their harps of gold are tuned to sing
The triumphs of their Saviour king;
And heavenly hill, and grove, and stream,
Are vocal with the joy theme.

4 When through the strength of saving grace
I finished my appointed race,
On that immortal, brighter plain,
I'll meet those kindred souls again.
Then speed your flight, ye passing years,
Till God shalt wipe these failing tears;
And bid my exile spirit come,
To dwell in that eternal home.

Text Information

• First Line: How blest the place where Jesus is!
• Title: How blest the place
• Publication Date: 1845
• Notes: Now Public Domain.

Tune Information

• Name: HOW BLEST THE PLACE
• Composer: S. W.
• Meter: L. M. D.
• Key: B♭ Major
• Notes: Now Public Domain.