Scripture Verse

They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to the disciples, Sit here while I pray. Mark 14:12

Introduction

portrait
William B. Tappan
1794–1849

Words: Will­iam B. Tap­pan, Gems of Sac­red Po­et­ry 1822.

Music: Ol­ive’s Brow Will­iam B. Brad­bu­ry, 1853 (🔊 pdf nwc).

Alternate Tune:

illustration
Agony in Gethsemane
Heinrich Hoffman, 1886

Lyrics

’Tis midnight, and on Olive’s brow
The star is dimmed that lately shone;
’Tis midnight, in the garden now
The suffering Savior prays alone.

’Tis midnight, and from all removed
Emmanuel wrestles lone with fears
E’en the disciple whom He loved
Heeds not his Master’s grief and tears.

’Tis midnight, and for others’ guilt
The Man of Sorrows weeps in blood;
Yet He who hath in anguish knelt
Is not forsaken by His God.

’Tis midnight, and from ether plains
Is borne the song that angels know;
Unheard by mortals are the strains
That sweetly soothe the Savior’s woe.