Piano Demo
0:00
Hymnal Number
556Resource Type:
Keys included:
G
About this Hymn
Three key thoughts are woven through this psalm. The first is the concept of pilgrimage, as the worshiper draws toward the temple with mounting excitement. Next is the joy of God's presence, expected and then encountered in that holy place. And then we see the sense of home and belonging, with a welcome for all—for Christians fulfilled less by some specific building than by being among the community of God's people, praising the Lord. – Martin Leckebusch
Lyrics
Verse 1
Lord, I dearly love your presence more than words can ever tell; how I yearn to see the beauty of the courts in which you dwell. Even sparrows there find refuge; there the swallow rears her young; what a joy to have a home there, where unending praise is sung.
Verse 2
Happy are the pilgrim people pressing on to greater things, finding water in the wasteland, making it a place of springs; on they go with mounting vigor till they stand before your throne; God of Jacob, guard your servants; make your lasting kindness known.
Verse 3
In the hearts of all the faithful, grace and glory are revealed— lavish gifts you give so freely, mighty Lord, our Sun and Shield. Better humble, godly service than a home where sin holds sway; better one day in your presence than a thousand far away.
Lord, I dearly love your presence more than words can ever tell; how I yearn to see the beauty of the courts in which you dwell. Even sparrows there find refuge; there the swallow rears her young; what a joy to have a home there, where unending praise is sung.
Verse 2
Happy are the pilgrim people pressing on to greater things, finding water in the wasteland, making it a place of springs; on they go with mounting vigor till they stand before your throne; God of Jacob, guard your servants; make your lasting kindness known.
Verse 3
In the hearts of all the faithful, grace and glory are revealed— lavish gifts you give so freely, mighty Lord, our Sun and Shield. Better humble, godly service than a home where sin holds sway; better one day in your presence than a thousand far away.
Copyrighted lyrics may be used in corporate worship in accordance with a valid CCLI license. Lyrics should be displayed unaltered and include author and copyright information. All other uses require permission from the copyright holder.
Attribution & Copyright
Words: Martin Leckebusch © 2010 Kevin Mayhew Ltd (Kevin Mayhew / www.kevinmayhew.com)
Music: William J. Kirkpatrick, 1882
Music: William J. Kirkpatrick, 1882