Hartsough wrote this song at a revival meeting in Epworth, Iowa.
Ira Sankey recounts: “The words and music of this beautiful hymn were first published in a monthly, entitled, Guide to Holiness, a copy of which was sent to me in England. I immediately adopted it, and had it published in Sacred Songs and Solos. It proved to be one of the most helpful of the revival hymns, and was often used as an invitation hymn in England and America.”
We sang this hymn last Sunday. What a beautiful melody it has. I particularly like the refrain which ends with the words “Wash me, cleanse me in the blood that flowed from Calvary”.
Lyrics and Music: Lewis Hartsough
I hear Thy welcome voice
That calls me, Lord, to Thee,
For cleansing in Thy precious blood
That flowed on Calvary.
Refrain:
I am coming, Lord,
Coming now to Thee:
Wash me, cleanse me in the blood
That flowed on Calvary.
Though coming weak and vile,
Thou dost my strength assure;
Thou dost my vileness fully cleanse,
Till spotless all and pure.
‘Tis Jesus calls me on
To perfect faith and love,
To perfect hope and peace and trust,
For earth and heav’n above.
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