O, When Shall I See Jesus

“O, When Shall I See Jesus” is a deeply anticipatory hymn attributed to John Leland, expressing the believer’s longing for the return of Christ and the hope of eternal communion with Him. Written around the turn of the nineteenth century, the hymn reflects the strong eschatological focus common in early American evangelical and revival hymnody. Its language is simple yet earnest, giving voice to the yearning of the faithful heart for deliverance, reunion, and glory.

The hymn centers on the hope of seeing Jesus face to face. This desire echoes Job’s confession in Job 19:25-27, where faith looks beyond death to a living Redeemer. The question “When shall I see Jesus?” is not one of doubt, but of expectation, grounded in confidence that God’s promises will surely be fulfilled.

A strong second coming theme runs throughout the hymn. Revelation 22:3-5 provides the backdrop for its hope, describing the future where God’s servants shall see His face and reign with Him forever. The hymn also aligns with 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, affirming that Christ will return and gather His people to Himself. This expectation brings comfort and perseverance amid present trials.

The hymn contrasts the struggles of earthly life with the joy of the world to come. Philippians 3:20-21 supports this contrast by reminding believers that their true citizenship is in heaven, from where they await the Savior. The hymn encourages steadfast faith, urging believers to endure with patience as they look forward to eternal rest and glory.

“O, When Shall I See Jesus” has often been sung in revival meetings, funerals, and services focused on Christian hope and perseverance. Its enduring power lies in its clear expression of longing, assurance, and joyful anticipation of Christ’s appearing, reminding believers that their greatest hope is not in this world, but in seeing and dwelling with their Savior forever.