As when the weary traveler gains

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As when the weary traveler gains,
the height of some commanding hill,
his heart revives, if o’er the plains
he eyes his home, through distant still.

Thus when the Christian pilgrim views
by faith his mansion in the skies,
the sight his fainting strength renews,
and wings his speed to reach the prize.

The thought of home, his spirit cheers,
no more he grieves for troubles past;
Nor any future trial fears,
so he may safe arrive at last.

Jesus, on thee our hopes we stay,
to lead us on to to thine abode;
assured thy love will far o’erpay
the hardest labors of the road.

Contents

Historical Notes

Author

John Newton (1725-1807)

Meter

LM

Sound Files

Bonn (Germany), Devonshire, Vespers, Walton

Other Comments

The original first verse reads:
As when the weary traveler gains,
the height of some o'er-looking hill,
his heart revives, if across the plains
he eyes his home, through distant still.

The American Episcopal hymnals omit verses 2 and 5 of the original:
While he surveys the much loved spot,
he slights the space that lies between;
his past fatigues are now forgot,
because his journey's end is seen.

'Tis there, he says, I am to dwell
with Jesus, in the realms of day;
then I shall bid my cares farewell,
and he will wipe my tears away.

Sources

Hymnal, Number, Tune(s)

Hymnal Number Tunes Used
Hymns of the Protestant Episcopal Church, 1826 186
The Church Hymnal, 1871 (Hall & Whiteley) 450 Fairford
The Church Hymnal, 1874 (Goodrich & Gilbert) 450 Bowen
The Church Hymnal, 1874 (Tucker & Rousseau) 450 Bonn (Germany)
The Church Hymnal, 1874 (Hutchins) 450 Bonn (Germany)
A Church of England Hymn Book, 1879 236
The Hymnal Companion, 1890 240 Devonshire
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Darlington) 677 Niagara, Staincliffe
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Parker) 677 Bonn (Germany)
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Hutchins) 677 Bonn (Germany), Brierly
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Tucker & Rousseau) 677 Bonn (Germany), Vespers
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Helfenstein) 677 Bonn (Germany), Brierly
The Church Hymnal, 1892 (Messiter) 677 Walton
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