Scripture Verse

The gates of [the city] shall not be shut at all by day; for there shall be no night there. Revelation 21:25

Introduction

portrait
Charles H. Gabriel
1856–1932

Words & Mu­sic: Charles H. Ga­bri­el, cir­ca 1917 (🔊 pdf nwc). This song was in­spired by the words of Ga­bri­el’s son as the two said good­bye in New York. His son was leav­ing for World War I, and they did not know if he would re­turn. Among his last words to his fa­ther were, Dad, if I ne­ver see you again here, I’ll meet you where the gates ne­ver swing out­ward.

Lyrics

Just a few more days to be filled with praise,
And to tell the old, old story;
Then, when twilight falls, and my Savior calls,
I shall go to Him in glory.

Refrain

I’ll exchange my cross for a starry crown,
Where the gates swing outward never;
At His feet I’ll lay every burden down,
And with Jesus reign forever.

Just a few more years with their toil and tears,
And the journey will be ended;
Then I’ll be with Him, where the tide of time
With eternity is blended.

Refrain

Though the hills be steep and the valleys deep,
With no flowers my way adorning;
Though the night be lone and my rest a stone,
Joy awaits me in the morning.

Refrain

What a joy ’twill be when I wake to see
Him for Whom my heart is burning!
Nevermore to sigh, nevermore to die,
For that day my heart is yearning.

Refrain