HYMN #0960 SSS #960 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #960: Sitting by the gateway

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

1

Sitting by the gateway of a palace fair,
Once a child of God was left to die;
By the world neglected, wealth would nothing share:
See the change awaiting there on high.
Carried by the angels to the land of rest,
Music sweetly sounding through the skies;
Welcomed by the Saviour to the heavenly feast,
Gathered with the loved in Paradise.

2

What shall be the ending of this life of care?
Oft the question cometh to us all;
Here upon the pathway hard the burdens bear,
And the burning tears of sorrow fall.

3

Follower of Jesus, scanty though thy store,
Treasures, precious treasures, wait on high;
Count the trials joyful, soon they’ll all be o’er:
Oh, the change that’s coming by and by!

4

Upward then, and onward! —onward for the Lord!
Time and talent all in His employ;
Small may seem the service—sure the great reward:
Here the cross—but there the crown of joy!

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Sitting by the gateway"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #960 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: Standard Metrical Hymnody
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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