This is my all-time favorite hymn. I will listen to this song the rest of my life and never grow tired of it. I want this song to be sung by those at my funeral. I love it because it is so beautiful and so challenging. The lyrics describe someone who has left everything to follow Jesus. This is what the Savior requires of us – to be willing to leave everything else aside and follow him. The person of this hymn endures ridicule, pain, and more in the service of the Savior. Every time I sing, it’s a challenge to me as I consider in what ways I have not taken up my cross. What “fond ambitions” am I holding onto that are not Jesus? What earthly comforts do I cling to more than Christ?
Yet, it’s a hymn of great joy as well. The lyrics talk of our great hope of heaven! One day, our faith will be made sight. All the scorn and pain endured in this world because of our faith will be nothing compared to beholding the glory of God. The song ends with this great hope. The song calls me to look beyond my circumstances and look upward to the hope of eternal life.
The lyrics of this hymn take me on such a journey. This version is my absolute favorite. It’s over 8 minutes long, but worth every minute. I encourage you to listen and let it minister to your soul!
