HYMN #0840 SSS #840 • SS&S Meter: L.M. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #840: Twill not be long

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

1

’Twill not be long—our journey here;
Each broken sigh and falling tear
Will soon be gone; and all will be
A cloudless sky, a waveless sea.
Roll on, . . dark stream I . .
We dread not thy foam;
The pilgrim is longing for home, sweet home.

2

’Twill not be long! the yearning heart
May feel its every hope depart,
And grief be mingled with its song;
We’ll meet again, ’twill not be long!

3

Though sad we mark the closing eye
Of those we loved in days gone by,
Yet sweet in death their latest song:
"We’ll meet again, ’twill not be long!"

4

These chequered wilds, with thorns
o’erspread,
Through which our way so oft is led—
This march of time, if faith be strong,
Will end in bliss; ’twill not be long!

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Twill not be long"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #840 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 4 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: L.M.
Stanza Structure: 4 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

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