Jesus Calls Us; O'er The Tumult

By Cecil Frances Alexander

Lyrics

1. . Jesus calls us o'er the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea;
Day by day his sweet voice sounding,
Saying, "Christian, follow me."

2. . Brothers Simon, Andrew heard it
By the Galilean lake,
Turned from home, and toil, and kindred,
Leaving all for His dear sake.

3. . Jesus calls us from the worship
Of the vain world’s golden store,
From each idol that would keep us,
Saying, “Christian, love me more.”

4. . In our joys and in our sorrows,
Days of toil and hours of ease,
Still he calls, in cares and pleasures,
“Christian, love me more than these.”

5. . Jesus calls us—By your mercies,
Savior, may we hear your call,
Give our hearts to your obedience,
Serve and love you best of all.

Bible Reference

Matthew 4:19

About This Hymn

Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult is a deeply reflective hymn written by Cecil Frances Alexander, a prolific 19th-century Irish hymn writer best known for beloved works such as All Things Bright and Beautiful and There Is a Green Hill Far Away. She wrote this hymn in 1852, inspired by Christ’s call to His disciples in the Gospels. The text captures the simplicity and power of Jesus’ invitation: “Follow Me.” Drawing from Matthew 4:19, the hymn portrays the calling of the disciples from their fishing boats and ordinary lives to a life of service and discipleship, reminding believers that Christ continues to call His followers away from worldly distractions to wholehearted devotion.

Alexander’s hymn is structured in a meditative and personal tone, making it suitable for moments of contemplation, worship, and commitment. The lyrics emphasize Christ’s enduring voice that speaks to every generation, calling His people not only in the midst of biblical scenes but also amid the “tumult” of daily life. This timeless message highlights the tension between worldly cares and Christ’s call, encouraging worshippers to make conscious decisions to follow Him faithfully. The steady rhythm and gentle melody of the hymn reflect its theme of calm surrender and obedience, which made it popular in Anglican and Protestant hymnals alike.

Over the years, Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult has been cherished as both a hymn of invitation and a song of discipleship. It reflects Alexander’s gift for blending doctrinal depth with poetic elegance, a hallmark of her hymns that were often written for children and congregations but resonated deeply with adults as well. Her contribution to hymnody significantly shaped 19th-century worship, and this particular hymn continues to be a staple for services focusing on Christian commitment, ordination, and missionary dedication. Its enduring power lies in its simple yet profound reminder that Jesus’ call remains as urgent today as it was by the Sea of Galilee.