Hark! The Voice of Jesus Calling

By Daniel March

Lyrics

1. . Hark! the voice of Jesus calling,
"Who will go and work today?
Fields are white, the harvest waiting,
Who will bear the sheaves away?"
Loud and long the Master calls out,
Rich reward he offers free:
Who will answer, gladly saying,
"Here am I, send me, send me."

2. . If you cannot cross the ocean
And the foreign lands explore,
You can find the needy nearer,
You can help them at your door.
If you cannot give in thousands,
You can give the widow's mite,
And the least you give for Jesus,
Will be precious in his sight.

3. . If you cannot speak like angels,
If you cannot preach like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus,
You can say he died for all.
If you cannot rouse the wicked,
With the judgment's dread alarms,
You may lead the little children,
To the Savior's waiting arms.

4. . Let none hear you idly saying,
"There is nothing I can do,"
While the lost of Earth are dying,
And the Master calls for you.
Take the task he gives you gladly;
Let his work your pleasure be.
Answer quickly when he's calling,
"Here am I, send, send me."

Bible Reference

Isaiah 6:8; Matthew 9:37–38; Luke 10:2

About This Hymn

"Hark! The Voice of Jesus Calling" is a gospel hymn written by Daniel March in 1868. The hymn emphasizes the believer's call to serve and spread the message of Christ, highlighting themes of mission, service, and obedience. Its lyrics challenge Christians to respond to Jesus' call to labor in His harvest field, whether near or far, and to contribute what they can, regardless of their circumstances. The refrain, "Here am I, send me," echoes the prophet Isaiah's response to God's call, serving as an invitation for personal commitment to service.

Musically, the hymn has been paired with various tunes over the years. One well-known setting is "Galilean" by Joseph Barnby, composed in 1883. This melody complements the hymn's message, making it suitable for congregational singing and evoking a sense of urgency and devotion. Another arrangement is "Ellefsie," attributed to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, which has been used in several hymnals.

The hymn has been included in numerous hymnals across different Christian denominations, reflecting its enduring appeal and relevance in Christian worship. Its call to action continues to inspire believers to actively participate in the mission of the Church and to serve others in the name of Christ.