I Long to Be There

1IN the midst of temptation, and sorrow and strife,
And evils unnumbered, of this bitter life,
I look to a blessed earth, free from all care;
The kingdom of Jesus, and long to be there.

2When this mortal body is racking with pain,
And demons are striving to trouble my brain,
I hope for the crown that the saints soon shall wear,
In the regions of glory, and long to be there.

3When the wicked are scoffing–because I believe
The Saviour is coming, my pains to relieve–
I weep for their folly, and bow in deep pray'r,
For Christ's coming kingdom, and long to be there.

4By the sweet flowing river of life I will sing
My triumph through Jesus, my Saviour and King.
And praise him who brought me, a sinner to share
A feast of fat things–O, I long to be there!

5I long to be there! And the thought that 'tis near,
Makes me almost impatient for Christ t'appear,
And fit up that dwelling of glories so rare,
The earth robed in beauty, I long to be there.