Lovingly, Tenderly Calling

By William A. Ogden

Lyrics

1. Jesus, the loving Shepherd,
Calleth thee now to come
Into the fold of safety,
Where there is rest and room;
Come in the strength of manhood,
Come in the morn of youth,
Enter the fold of safety,
Enter the way of truth.

Chorus:
Lovingly, tenderly calling is He,
"Wanderer, wanderer, come unto Me."
Patiently waiting, there standing I see
Jesus, my Shepherd divine.

2. Jesus, the loving Shepherd,
Gave His dear life for thee;
Tenderly now He's calling,
"Wanderer, come to Me;"
Haste! for without is danger,
"Come," cries the Shepherd blest;
Enter the fold of safety,
Enter the place of rest.

3. Lingering is but folly,
Wolves are abroad today,
Seeking the sheep who're straying,
Seeking the lambs to slay;
Jesus, the loving Shepherd,
Calleth thee now to come;
Enter the fold of safety,
Where there is rest and room.

Bible Reference

John 10:11

About This Hymn

"Lovingly, Tenderly Calling" is a hymn composed by William Augustine Ogden in 1885. The hymn is set to the tune "Jesus, the Loving Shepherd," also composed by Ogden. Its lyrics emphasize the compassionate and patient call of Jesus to those who are lost or wandering, inviting them to come to Him for safety and rest.

The first verse begins with the line: "Jesus, the loving Shepherd, calleth thee now to come," highlighting the active and ongoing invitation of Christ. The refrain echoes this call: "Lovingly, tenderly calling is He, 'Wanderer, wanderer, come unto Me,'" underscoring the tenderness and urgency of Jesus' invitation.

The hymn's verses continue to reflect on various aspects of life's burdens, such as heavy crosses, cares, griefs, and losses, and affirm that Jesus provides help, lightens burdens, and offers forgiveness and mercy. The consistent theme throughout the hymn is the unwavering support and love of Jesus for His followers.

Biblically, the hymn resonates with passages such as John 10:11, where Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd," and John 10:14–16, where He speaks of knowing His sheep and laying down His life for them.

"Lovingly, Tenderly Calling" has been included in various hymnals and continues to be sung in Christian worship settings, offering comfort and encouragement to believers.