Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling
One of the joys I have in recording my podcast is the discovery of ancient songs, and the chance to make them new. This past week was no exception; I discovered a lesser-known hymn called “Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling.” It is a wonderful little hymn, an admonition for us to go out and share the Good News.
In the process of learning this song, I opted to medley it with a praise chorus “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.” I would think that this chorus would be more familiar than it is today, but for some reason it has slipped through the cracks and is almost nearly forgotten.
What a joy it was to hear these songs together. The admonition of the Great Commission is properly balanced with authentic, reverent, simple praise to God. Both are needed; you cannot have one without the other.
The words and sheet music (right-click and select save-as on the titles) are as follows:
HARK THE VOICE OF JESUS CALLING
Arthur Sullivan, 1842-1900;
Daniel March, 1868
JESUS, JESUS, JESUS
Composer unknown
Arr. by Nick Alexander
1. Hark the Voice of Jesus calling
“Who will go and work today?
Fields are white and harvest waiting,
Who will bear the sheaves away?”
Loud and long the Master calleth
Rich reward He offers free;
Who will answer, gladly saying,
“Here am I, send me, send me?”
2. If you cannot cross the ocean
And all other lands explore,
You can find the hurting nearer,
You can help them at your door;
If you cannot give your thousands
You can give the widow’s mite;
And the least you give for Jesus
Will be precious in His sight.
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Never have I heard a Name
that thrills my soul like Thine.
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
O the wond’rous grace that links
that lovely Name with mine.
3. Let none hear you idly saying,
“There is nothing I can do”
While the souls of men are dying
And the Master calls for you
Take the task He gives you gladly;
Let His work your pleasure be;
Answer quickly when He calleth
“Here am I, send me, send me.”
Both songs public domain; Arrangement Copyright Pending
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