D&C 101:16 Therefore, let your hearts be comforted... for all flesh is in mine hands; be still and know that I am God. A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief 1. A poor, wayfaring Man of grief Hath often crossed me on my way, Who sued so humbly for relief That I could never answer nay. I had not powr to ask his name, Whereto he went, or whence he came; Yet there was something in his eye That won my love; I knew not why. 2. Once, when my scanty meal was spread, He entered; not a word he spake, Just perishing for want of bread. I gave him all; he blessed it, brake, And ate, but gave me part again. Mine was an angels portion then, For while I fed with eager haste, The crust was manna to my taste. 3. I spied him where a fountain burst Clear from the rock; his strength was gone. The heedless water mocked his thirst; He heard it, saw it hurrying on. I ran and raised the suffrer up; Thrice from the stream he drained my cup, Dipped and returned it running oer; I drank and never thirsted more. 4. Twas night; the floods were out; it blew A winter hurricane aloof. I heard his voice abroad and flew To bid him welcome to my roof. I warmed and clothed and cheered my guest And laid him on my couch to rest, Then made the earth my bed and seemed In Edens garden while I dreamed. 5. Stript, wounded, beaten nigh to death, I found him by the highway side. I roused his pulse, brought back his breath, Revived his spirit, and supplied Wine, oil, refreshment--he was healed. I had myself a wound concealed, But from that hour forgot the smart, And peace bound up my broken heart. 6. In prisn I saw him next, condemned To meet a traitors doom at morn. The tide of lying tongues I stemmed, And honored him mid shame and scorn. My friendships utmost zeal to try, He asked if I for him would die. The flesh was weak; my blood ran chill, But my free spirit cried, I will! 7. Then in a moment to my view The stranger started from disguise. The tokens in his hands I knew; The Savior stood before mine eyes. He spake, and my poor name he named, Of me thou hast not been ashamed. These deeds shall thy memorial be; Fear not, thou didst them unto me. Text: James Montgomery, 1771-1854 Music: George Coles, 1792-1858, alt. Hymn sung prior to the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith. See History of the Church, 6:614-15.
Posted on: Fri, 23 Jan 2015 03:42:42 +0000
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