Scripture Verse

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Philippians 1:23–24

Introduction

Words: J. G. Bon­nell, in Praise and Pro­mise, ed­it­ed by James M. Black & Charles C. Mc­Cabe (Chi­ca­go, Il­li­nois: Ro­bert R. Mc­Cabe, 1900), num­ber 69.

Music: Ta­mal­pais C. E. Cous­er, 1900 (🔊 pdf nwc).

If you know Bon­nell or Cous­er’s full name, or where to get a good pho­tos of them (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els),

Lyrics

If life be long, I will be glad
That I may long obey;
If short, then why should I be sad
To soar to endless day?

This life is giv’n me to prepare
For that which is to come;
Grant me, O Lord, the bliss to share
Of an eter­nal home.

The life God gives I will employ
To do His blessèd will;
Upward I’ll soar on wings of joy,
And do His pleasure still.

Then let me live for God alone,
While life to me is giv’n;
And let me serve before the throne
Forevermore in Heav’n.