Beside the Chilly Wave

Recently my Dad introduced me to a remarkable and yet mostly forgotten old hymn. It was written by a man from Ohio with the surprising name Tullius Clinton O’Kane. During his life he was a school principle, a travelling salesman, and ran a choral society.

He imagines a multitude passing through death to their final salvation in Jesus Christ. Among those in the crowd are those who have lived through hard suffering or who have faced conflict, in this life.

But perhaps the most beautiful and unique picture is in the second verse. O’Kane celebrates something that we don’t celebrate enough. The wonderful grace of God that we see in the lives of children who have come to know the Lord early in life.

You can read the hymn below, but also be sure to check out my Dad’s article here, which also celebrates the contributions of children to the Church.

Washed in the Blood of the Lamb

Who, who are these beside the chilly wave,
Just on the borders of the silent grave,
Shouting Jesu’s power to save,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”
“Sweeping through the gates” of the new Jerusalem,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb,”
“Sweeping through the gates” of the new Jerusalem,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”

These, these are they who, in their youthful days,
Found Jesus early, and in wisdom’s ways
Proved the fullness of His grace,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”

These, these are they who, in affliction’s woes,
Ever have found in Jesus calm repose,
Such as from a pure heart flows,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”

These, these are they who, in the conflict dire,
Boldly have stood amid the hottest fire;
Jesus now says, “come up higher,”
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”

Safe, safe upon the ever shining shore,
Sin, pain, and death, and sorrow are all o’er;
Happy now and evermore,
“Washed in the blood of the Lamb.”

Source: The Cyber Hymnal