March 25, 2005

When He Cometh

William Orcutt Cushing, 1823-1902

    When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Colossians 3:4.

    The scriptural promise of Christ's second coming is always a thrilling truth for believers to ponder. Beyond that, the thought of the Saviour creating a jeweled crown from little children who love Him is a fascinating pictorial concept. William Orcutt Cushing conceived the idea for his "Jewel Song" text from the promise in Malachi 3:17: "And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels." Pastor Cushing wrote the text for the children in his own Sunday School in 1856.
    William Cushing's picturesque words in today's hymn, "They shall shine in their beauty--bright gems for His crown," could also be used to describe his own qualities of character. He was known by his many friends to be a noble, sweet, deeply spiritual Christian. Loved by all, Cushing continued to inspire and encourage others despite his handicap until the end of his life at the age of 79.

When He cometh, when He cometh
To make up His jewels,
All His jewels, precious jewels,
His loved and His own.

He will gather, He will gather
The gems for His kingdom;
All the pure ones, all the bright ones,
His loved and His own.

Little children, little children,
Who love their Redeemer,
Are the jewels, precious jewels,
His loved and His own.

Chorus:
Like the stars of the morning,
His brightness adorning,
They shall shine in their beauty,
Bright gems for His crown.