November 19, 2016 (Saturday)
I have heard this hymn sung at the close of many services through the years. On several occasions all the members of the congregation joined hands as they sang. Usually only the first verse is sung as a parting chorus, but there are many verses in this hymn. The writer is John D. Fawcett (1739-1817), who was converted under the ministry of George Whitfield, became a Methodist at first but later became a Baptist. He served several Baptist churches as pastor in his home country of England, and, in 1811, was awarded a doctorate from America. He is the author of many hymns and several books.
BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS
Words and Music by John D. Fawcett
c. 1780
1 Blest be the tie that binds
our hearts in Christian love;
the fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.
2 Before our Father’s throne
we pour our ardent prayers;
our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
our comforts and our cares.
3 We share our mutual woes,
our mutual burdens bear,
and often for each other flows
the sympathizing tear.
4 When we are called to part,
it gives us inward pain;
but we shall still be joined in heart,
and hope to meet again.
5 This glorious hope revives
our courage by the way;
while each in expectation lives
and waits to see the day.
6 From sorrow, toil, and pain,
and sin, we shall be free;
and perfect love and friendship reign
through all eternity.
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