Come, Lord, and Tarry Not

Horatius Bonar’s hymn is a longing cry for the return of Christ, shaped by the heartfelt expectation that marked much of his devotional writing. In Revelation chapter twenty two verse twenty, the church responds to Christ’s promise with the words, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” Bonar follows this scriptural spirit, giving believers a way to voice their hope for the day when Christ will set all things right. His text captures both yearning and confidence, combining the sorrow of a world marked by suffering with the assurance of the Savior who has promised to come again.

The hymn reflects Bonar’s deep pastoral concern for weary believers. He lived in a century marked by spiritual searching, rapid social change, and personal trials, and he sought to remind Christians that the hope of Christ’s return is not an abstract doctrine but a living comfort. Every verse carries a sense of holy urgency. The world is burdened by sin and brokenness, and the church eagerly awaits the One who will bring redemption to its full completion. Bonar voices the honest confession that without Christ’s presence, the world feels restless and incomplete. Yet he also expresses confidence that Christ will keep His word and come at the appointed time.

There is a quiet strength in the way the hymn blends longing with faith. Bonar does not portray Christ’s return as something distant or uncertain. Instead, he presents it as the believer’s sure and precious expectation. The hymn encourages Christians to remain steadfast, watchful, and hopeful. It reminds the singer that Christ’s coming will bring justice, healing, and everlasting joy. Through simple and earnest language, Bonar invites the church to pray with renewed sincerity for the return of the Lord, trusting that His timing is perfect and His promise is true.