Weird old hymn. I'm calling it "Classical General" but none of the categories really seem to describe this.
christian
death
heaven
vintage
old
hymn
Story behind the song
I don't for a minute believe a thing that this song is telling us. I'm just attracted to weird old stuff. This Stella lady who wrote these lyrics is a bit too cheerful about the inevitable reality of icy Death's grim hand stilling our mortal hearts, after which we will cross to the heavenly realm above where the joy bells ring.
Lyrics
Oh! death is swiftly drawing near, but its sad coming we need not fear.
If we our crosses patiently bear, our souls today for heaven prepare.
Death is near, oh! Death is near. Soon its mighty voice we'll hear.
Calling us to heaven's shore, where sad partings are no more.
We are all gay and happy today, but soon grim death on us may lay
his icy hand and still the heart, and bid the soul from earth depart.
Death is near, oh! Death is ear. Soon its mighty voice we'll hear.
Calling us to heaven's shore, where sad partings are no more.
Oh! wicked one, to Jesus turn, the way of truth and life to learn.
Oh! not a moment longer stand, for death's sad call is near at hand.
Death is near, oh! Death is near. Soon its mighty voice we'll hear.
Calling us to heaven's shore, where sad partings are no more.
Oh! when we cross the stormy tide, then may we ever with the Savior abide,
where angels shall his praises sing, and heaven's joy bells forever ring.
Death is near, oh! Death is near. Soon its mighty voice we'll hear.
Calling us to heaven's shore, where sad partings are no more.