“When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder” is more than just a hymn; it’s a heartfelt declaration of faith that resonates with believers around the world. Written in 1893 by James M. Black, this song has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in gospel music and church services alike. What makes it truly special is its ability to evoke a sense of hope and anticipation, as it speaks directly to the believer’s assurance of a future gathering in heaven.
Imagine being in a small church, the kind with wooden pews and stained-glass windows, where the community gathers each Sunday to sing praises. This hymn, with its straightforward melody and powerful lyrics, would fill the room with an undeniable sense of unity and shared belief. It’s the kind of song that brings people together, not just in voice, but in spirit, reminding them of the promise of eternal life.
The lyrics of “When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder” are simple yet profound. They paint a picture of the ultimate day when the faithful will be gathered in heaven. The roll call imagery, which might remind you of school days, is here transformed into something divine—a heavenly roster where every name is a testament to a life lived in faith. It’s a comforting thought, that no matter what happens in this life, there’s a place for you on that list, a place where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
This song’s enduring popularity is no accident. It taps into a deep well of emotion and belief, offering comfort and reassurance. It’s a song that’s often sung at funerals, not as a lament, but as a celebration of a life that will continue on the other side. When you hear “When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder,” you’re reminded of the bigger picture, the one where life doesn’t end at death but continues in a place of eternal peace
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Lyrics
When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and time shall be no more
And the morning breaks eternal bright and fair
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise
And the glory of His resurrection share
When His chosen ones are gathered to their home beyond the skies
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
Let us labor for the Master from the dawn ’til setting sun
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care
Then when all of life is over and our work on earth is done
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there