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The United Methodist Hymnal · No. 540 · Words: Timothy Dwight · Tune: ST. THOMAS
I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord
Create PowerPoint slides from this hymn →Written by Timothy Dwight in 1801 as part of his revision of Watts' Psalter, this is widely regarded as the oldest American hymn still in regular congregational use. It expresses deep love and intercessory devotion for the Christian church as Christ's redeemed community.
Verse 1
I love thy kingdom, Lord,
the house of thine abode,
the church our blest
Redeemer saved
with his own precious blood.
Verse 2
I love thy church, O God!
Her walls before thee stand
dear as the apple of thine eye,
and graven on thy hand.
Verse 3
For her my tears shall fall,
for her my prayers ascend,
to her my cares
and toils be given,
till toils and cares shall end.
Verse 4
Beyond my highest joy
I prize her heavenly ways,
her sweet communion,
solemn vows,
her hymns of love and praise.
Verse 5
Sure as thy truth shall last,
to Zion shall be given
the brightest glories
earth can yield,
and brighter bliss of heaven.
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