A Song for Wayfaring Strangers

This is a solid remix of the old spiritual, “Poor Wayfaring Stranger.” This song reminds us that we are sojourners and strangers here in a world of suffering, but that we are bound for our true homeland. The traditional lyrics of the chorus focus on seeing loved ones again in heaven, which is a wonderful thing. However, I’ve been trying to rework the song for a corporate worship version in a way that incorporates our longing to see the face of God. It has a singable structure, it just needs to be put to a tempo appropriate for congregational song. Below is what I have so far after borrowing from various versions of the song and writing some lines of my own.

I am a poor wayfaring stranger
While journeying through this world below
But there’s no sickness, toil, or danger
In that bright world to which I go

I’m going there to my true Father,
He said he’d meet me when I’d come
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home

I know dark clouds will gather o’er me
I know my way lies rough and steep
But heaven’s fields lie out before me
Where weary eyes no more shall weep.

I’m going there to see my Savior,
He said he’s making me a room,
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home

I want to sing salvation’s story,
In concert with the blood-washed band;
I long to wear a crown of glory,
When I get home to that good land.

I’m going there to join my people,
The multitude from every tongue
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home

I soon shall die, leave all behind me,
This form will rest beneath the sod
But resurrection’s waiting for me,
And my forever home with God.

I’m going there to see his glory,
To worship Christ with seraphim,
I’m only going over Jordan
I’m only going over home

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