The Worshipbook ‎#416

416. Heralds of Christ, Who Bear the King's Commands

1 Heralds of Christ, who bear the King's commands,
Immortal tidings in your mortal hands,
Pass on and carry swift the news ye bring:
Make straight, make straight the highway of the King.

2 Through desert ways, dark fen, and deep morass,
Through jungles, sluggish seas, and mountain pass,
Build ye the road, and falter not, nor stay;
Prepare across the earth the King's highway.

3 Where once the crooked trail in darkness wound
Let marching feet and joyous song resound,
Where burn the funeral pyres, and censers swing,
Make straight, make straight the highway of the King.

4 Lord, give us faith and strength the road to build,
To see the promise of the day fulfilled,
When war shall be no more and strife shall cease
Upon the highway of the Prince of Peace.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: Heralds of Christ, who bear the King's command
• Title: Heralds of Christ, Who Bear the King's Commands
• Author: Laura S. Copenhaver (1894, alt. 1972)
• Meter: 10.10.10.10.
• Publication Date: 1972
• Scripture:
  Isaiah 40:3-5
• Topic: Service for the Lord's Day: Opening of Worship; Other Observances: Mission; Other Observances: World Peace

Tune Information

• Name: NATIONAL HYMN
• Composer: George William Warren (1892)
• Meter: 10.10.10.10.
• Key: E♭ Major