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BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS

One of the great hymns that caused me to pause for a moment with
some emotion, when I first learned its history, is by John Fawcett.
He was born in Bradford in 1739 and was “Born again” at the age of
sixteen. George Whitefield preached to the large crowds, waiting for
him, as he journeyed on his way up north. Among those who
listened to him was John Fawcett. He remembered the text and the
sermon for the rest of his life.

Blest be the tie that binds
our hearts in Christian love;
the fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.

Before our Father’s throne
we pour our ardent prayers;
our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
our comforts and our cares.

We share our mutual woes,
our mutual burdens bear,
and often for each other flows
the sympathizing tear.

When for a while we part,
this thought will soothe our pain,
that we shall still be joined in heart,
and hope to meet again.

This glorious hope revives
our courage by the way,
while each in expectation lives,
and longs to see the day.

From sorrow, toil, and pain,
and sin we shall be free;
and perfect love and friendship reign
through all eternity.

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