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The United Methodist Hymnal · No. 580 · Words: Ernest W. Shurtleff · Tune: LANCASHIRE
Lead On, O King Eternal
Create PowerPoint slides from this hymn →Written by Ernest W. Shurtleff in 1887 for his Williams College graduation, this hymn frames the Christian life as a march led by Christ the King. It moves from spiritual preparation to active service and concludes with the assurance of joy in God's presence.
Verse 1
Lead on, O King eternal,
the day of march has come;
henceforth in fields of conquest
thy tents shall be our home.
Through days of preparation
thy grace has
made us strong;
and now, O King eternal,
we lift our battle song.
Verse 2
Lead on, O King eternal,
till sin’s fierce
war shall cease,
and holiness shall whisper
the sweet amen of peace.
For not with
swords loud clashing,
nor roll of stirring drums;
with deeds of love and mercy
the heavenly kingdom comes.
Verse 3
Lead on, O King eternal,
we follow, not with fears,
for gladness breaks
like morning
where’er thy face appears.
Thy cross is lifted o’er us,
we journey in its light;
the crown awaits
the conquest;
lead on, O God of might.
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