I’ve heard the term “In the Sweet By and By” since I was a young boy but I have never really taken the time to find out what this was all about. I knew it was an old hymn but I really didn’t know much about it until now.

Last night, as I attended the wake of my aunt who died a few days ago, this hymn was sung by the sisters and cousin of the deceased. No doubt they knew the hymn very well because all of them are choir members in their Christian church. They sang the song in acapella and I was touched by how they sang it and the lyrics of the hymn really inspired me. It was a fitting song for the occasion.

I found out later on the internet that this song is entitled “In the Sweet By and By” and it was written by Sanford F. Bennett in 1868! That’s one and a half centuries ago! The lyrics are quite simple but it’s really inspiring for those who hope, wait and trust in the Lord for their salvation. It gives hope and encouragement for people to carry on, despite life’s challenges, difficulties and even in the face of death.

May I share it here:

In the sweet by and by  (Sanford F. Bennett, 1868)

There’s a land that is fairer than day,
And by faith we can see it afar;
For the Father waits over the way
To prepare us a dwelling place there.

Refrain:
In the sweet by and by,
We shall meet on that beautiful shore;
In the sweet by and by,
We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

We shall sing on that beautiful shore
The melodious songs of the blessed;
And our spirits shall sorrow no more,
Not a sigh for the blessing of rest.

To our bountiful Father above,
We will offer our tribute of praise
For the glorious gift of His love
And the blessings that hallow our days.

Here’s a short video during that evening:

Songs do touch the heart. And old hymns from centuries ago make it even more meaningful. Wouldn’t you agree?