I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
Philippians 1:23–24
Words: J. G. Bonnell, in Praise and Promise, edited by James M. Black & Charles C. McCabe (Chicago, Illinois: Robert R. McCabe, 1900), number 69.
Music: Tamalpais C. E. Couser, 1900 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Bonnell or Couser’s full name, or where to get a good photos of them (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
If life be long, I will be glad
That I may long obey;
If short, then why should I be sad
To soar to endless day?
This life is giv’n me to prepare
For that which is to come;
Grant me, O Lord, the bliss to share
Of an eternal home.
The life God gives I will employ
To do His blessèd will;
Upward I’ll soar on wings of joy,
And do His pleasure still.
Then let me live for God alone,
While life to me is giv’n;
And let me serve before the throne
Forevermore in Heav’n.