The Hymnal 1982 ‎#281

281. He sat to watch o'er customs paid

1. He sat to watch o'er customs paid,
a man of scorned and hardening trade,
alike the symbol and the tool
of foreign master's hated rule.

2. But grace within his heart had stirred,
there needed but the timely word;
it came, true Lord of souls, from thee,
that royal summons, "Follow me."

3. Enough, when thou wast passing by,
to hear thy voice, to meet thine eye;
he rose, responsive to the call,
and left his task, his gains, his all.

4. O wise exchange! with these to part,
and lay up treasures in the heart;
let them of Matthew's wealth partake,
who yield up all for Jesus' sake.

Text Information

• First Line: He sat to watch o'er customs paid
• Author: William Bright, 1824-1901 (alt.)
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1985
• Topic: Holy Days and Various Occasions: Saint Matthew (Septmber 21)

Tune Information

• Name: BRESLAU
• Harmonizer: Felix Mendelssohn, 1804-1847 (alt.)
• Meter: LM
• Key: G Major
• Source: Lochamer Gesangbuch, 1450?, alt. (melody)