Music & HymnsMy Savior First Of All

"When I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness." Psalm 17:15

Words: Frances Jane (Fanny) Crosby, 1894.

There appeared in London a man who styled himself the messiah, and for many weeks a large crowd was attracted to him. One night, however, as he was talking in one of the open squares in the city, a small band of the Salvation Army passed along, singing,

"I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand."

The great throng joined in the chorus. Finally someone pointed at the self-styled Christ and said, "Look at his hands and see if the print of the nails is there." They did as directed, but no print appeared, and they at once left off following him.

Fanny Crosby, Memories of Eighty Years, 1906

When my life work 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 print of the nails in His hand.

Oh, the soul thrilling rapture when I view His blessèd 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.

Refrain

Oh, 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.

Refrain

Through 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.

Refrain

Hymns supplied through the gracious generosity of the Cyber Hymnal Website