On Jordan’s Stormy Banks
A dissenting clergyman in 18th century England wrote this beautiful vision of heaven. Or is it a vision of the sanctified life? On Jordan’s Stormy Banks remains a favourite for many – although the famous refrain was not in the original work by Samual Stennett.
LYRICS
1. On Jordan's stormy banks I stand,
And cast a wishful eye
To Canaan's fair and happy land,
Where my possessions lie.
I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.
2 O the transporting rapt'rous scene,
That rises to my sight!
Sweet fields array'd in living green,
And rivers of delight!
3 There gen'rous fruits that never fail,
On trees immortal grow;
There rocks and hills, and brooks and vales,
With milk and honey flow.
4 All o'er those wide extended plains
Shines one eternal day;
There God the Son forever reigns,
And scatters night away.
5 No chilling winds, nor pois'nous breath
Can reach that healthful shore;
Sickness and sorrow, pain and death,
Are felt and fear'd no more.
6 When shall I reach that happy place,
I'll be forever blest?
When shall I see my Father's face,
And in his bosom rest?
7 Fill'd with delight my raptur'd soul
Would here no longer stay;
Tho' Jordan's waves around me roll,
Fearless I'd launch away.
