I Think, When I Read that Sweet Story of Old

Jemima Luke wrote this tender hymn after reflecting on the scenes in the Gospels where the Lord Jesus welcomed little children with kindness and compassion. The hymn expresses the thoughts of a child who reads the biblical stories of Christ and longs to meet Him with the same trust that the children showed in Scripture. Through simple and sincere language, the hymn captures the innocence of childhood faith and the desire to be close to the Savior who showed such gentleness to the young.

The hymn moves through the childlike imagination that wonders what it would be like to sit near Jesus, to see His face, and to hear His voice as He ministered to the people. The repeated longing creates a warm and personal connection between the singer and the Savior, which has made the hymn beloved in children’s worship for generations. The text highlights the compassion of Christ, who invited children to come to Him and promised blessing to those who believe with humble hearts. The hymn encourages trust, obedience, and a spirit of nearness to the Lord, reminding readers that the same Jesus who held children in His arms continues to care for every believer today.