Notes from a workbook belonging to Johan O. Smith

Bridal Longings

1.
Within my heart there dawns a yearning,
So delicate, a longing sigh.
Through suff’ring’s veil, t’ward heaven turning,
I gaze on Him who dwells on high.

2.
My Friend is beckoning and pleading;
He sees me and He knows so well
The inner longing so exceeding
Which in my heart of hearts doth dwell.

3.
Who quickens this deep longing in me?
This love that burns so fervently?—
That makes me almost sick within me?
Yes, Jesus of Nazareth—’tis He.

4.
As Savior I’ve known Him before—He
Saved from sin and death’s demise.
But now, as Bridegroom, He waits for me.
This frees me from all earthly ties.

5.
At Heaven’s wedding celebration—
For that blest gath’ring, how I long—
Then peoples, tribes from every nation,
With praises filled, will ’round Him throng.

6.
Faith’s battle fight, without abating!
Hold out in all things, nothing less.
Our crown will over there be waiting
And more than words could e’er express.

November 10, 1909