1 As the years roll on, and the sun sinks
In the purpling, paling west,
Oh, ‘tis sweet to know, as we onward go,
We are nearing the gates of rest;—
The pearly gates—lo! they gleam afar,
O’er a world of sorrow and sin,—
O gates, unbar, and stand ajar,
To let the poor pilgrims in.
2 As the years roll on, and the skies grow pale
To our weary, tear-dimm’d sight,
Shall our spirits quail and our courage fail
‘Mid the gloom of the falling night?
Nay, we shall joy in the coming day,
That shall bring the Light of Love;
O beauteous ray, illume our way
To happier realms above.
3 As the years roll on, and the twilight falls,
Lo! our eyes the glories see
Of the golden halls and the jasper walls
Of our home that is soon to be;
And we shall see our dear Lord and King
When we reach that heavenly shore;
O glad harps, ring, and angels sing
Forever, and evermore.