Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew 5:3
Words: E. G. Sumner, in Musical Leaves for Sabbath Schools, edited by Philip Phillips (Cincinnati, Ohio: Philip Phillips, 1865), number 35.
Music: Cañada Philip Phillips, 1865 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Sumner’s full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head-and-shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), would you ?
Come unto Jesus, ye that mourn,
Our blessèd Savior said;
His promises, how sure they are,
Ye shall be comforted.
Refrain
This promise, on that sacred mount,
Was given by our Lord;
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad,
For great is your reward.
Ye poor in spirit, unto you
How great the blessings giv’n;
His choicest promises are yours,
Yours is the kingdom—Heav’n.
Refrain
The meek, and they for Jesus’ sake,
Who persecutions bear;
He promises a heav’nly home,
A crown of glory there.
Refrain
Be merciful, for unto such
He spares His chast’ning rod;
Be pure in heart, our Savior says,
The pure shall dwell with God.
Refrain