Shall We Gather at the River
Author: Robert Lowry (1864)·Music: Robert Lowry·Scripture: Revelation 22:1·Topic: Salvation and Redemption
Meaning & History
Written during a summer epidemic as Lowry buried member after member, this hymn lifts the eyes to the river of life and the reunion of the saints. A hymn of hope at gravesides.
Lyrics
Verse 1
Shall we gather at the river, Where bright angel feet have trod, With its crystal tide forever Flowing by the throne of God?
Refrain
Yes, we'll gather at the river, The beautiful, the beautiful river; Gather with the saints at the river That flows by the throne of God.
Verse 2
On the margin of the river, Washing up its silver spray, We will walk and worship ever, All the happy golden day.
Refrain
Yes, we'll gather at the river, The beautiful, the beautiful river; Gather with the saints at the river That flows by the throne of God.
Verse 3
Soon we'll reach the shining river, Soon our pilgrimage will cease; Soon our happy hearts will quiver With the melody of peace.
Refrain
Yes, we'll gather at the river, The beautiful, the beautiful river; Gather with the saints at the river That flows by the throne of God.