My Savior First of All

Greg and I used to sing this together, mainly for funerals. It's been on my mind in the last few days, reminding me of the blessing of seeing our Savior we can anticipate. I'm excited for heaven, but I want my life here to speak, not only for what's promised, but for the joy of bringing others into His Presence, here and in the here to come (where time is no more). May my Savior be "our Savior" as we live out His Word in the world. (Again, these are Fanny Crosby's words, with many images of sight. Her blindness truly opened her eyes to eternity!)
When my lifework 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.
Refrain:
I shall know Him; I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand.
I shall know Him; I shall know Him
By the prints of the nails in His hand.
O the soul-thrilling rapture when I view His blessed face,
And the luster of His kindly beaming eye;
How my full heart will praise Him for the mercy, love, and grace
That prepare for me a mansion in the sky!
O the dear ones in glory-how they beckon me to come,
And our parting at the river I recall!
To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home;
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.
Thro' the gates to the city in a robe of spotless white,
He will lead me where no tears will ever fall.
In the glad song of ages I shall mingle with delight;
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.
Words: Fanny J. Crosby, 1894
Music: John R. Sweney, 1894
This arrangement ©2023, Geri Rosser. All rights reserved.