My Savior First of All

By Fanny Crosby

Lyrics

1. When my lifework is ended and I cross the swelling tide,
When the bright and glorious morning I shall see;
I shall know my Redeemer when I reach the other side,
And His smile will be the first to welcome me.

Chorus:
I shall know Him, (I shall know Him,) I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand;
I shall know Him, (I shall know Him,) I shall know Him
By the print of the nails in His hand.

2. Oh, the soul thrilling rapture when I view His blessed face,
And the luster of His kindly beaming eye;
How my full heart will praise Him for the mercy, love and grace
That prepared for me a mansion in the sky.

3. Oh, the dear ones in glory, how they beckon me to come,
And our parting at the river I recall;
To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home,
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.

4. Thro' the gates to the city in a robe of spotless white,
He will lead me where no tears will ever fall;
In the glad song of ages I shall mingle with delight,
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.

Bible Reference

1 John 3:2

About This Hymn

"My Savior First of All" is one of the most beloved hymns penned by Fanny J. Crosby, the blind hymn writer whose spiritual insight touched millions. This particular hymn reflects her deep longing to meet Christ face to face. Though physically blind from infancy, Fanny possessed a vivid inner vision of her future meeting with the Savior. The hymn expresses the hope and joy of heaven, not primarily because of its splendor or reunion with loved ones, but because Christ Himself will be there. The central image in the song is the moment of seeing Jesus and recognizing Him by the print of the nails in His hands.

Crosby's deep personal faith shines through in lines such as, "I shall know Him, I shall know Him, by the print of the nails in His hand." The hymn was composed in collaboration with John R. Sweney, who matched her tender, expectant words with a soaring melody that has resonated with Christians for generations. It captures the Christian's anticipation of eternity and the surpassing joy of finally seeing Jesus. The hymn emphasizes the personal nature of salvation and the believer's future glorification.

"My Savior First of All" has comforted countless people who mourn or anticipate the passing of loved ones in Christ. It assures them that beyond death lies a glorious reunion, not only with other believers but most importantly with the Lord Himself. Fanny J. Crosby, though deprived of physical sight, looked forward to the day when her eyes would be opened in glory and Jesus would be the first face she would ever see. This hymn remains a powerful expression of eternal hope and Christian devotion.