1.

A pilgrim here on earth am I;
My goal is heaven’s home on high.
The staff I carry is God’s Word;
I’m by a pilgrim-spirit stirred.
I must depart; I must depart.
This world cannot give peace of heart.
For now I as a pilgrim tread
Toward heaven’s blessed home ahead.

2.

The way is narrow, steep, and long,
But in my heart I’m filled with song.
No matter if I suffer here,
The time of sorrow’s end is near.
There’ll be rejoicing in the end,
So do not cry for me, my friend.
I’m happy as I onward tread
Toward heaven’s blessed home ahead.

3.

I can’t take time with things of earth
Which other people think have worth.
I cannot carry on with such,
For that would slow me down too much.
Yes, I must always travel light,
With readiness for truth to fight.
I hasten on, for soon I’ll be
With Jesus, saved eternally.

4.

The way to heaven’s wonderful!
It’s always new; it’s never dull.
Away from it I’ll never go.
Along it living waters flow.
In deepest night, in heat of day
This water flows along the way.
I quench my thirst here any time,
Then lift my head and onward climb.

5.

So come, dear friend, I’m sure it’s true,
You want to go to heaven too.
God’s grace is with you now to start,
But soon your chances will depart.
So take your staff in hand today,
And for the pilgrim-spirit pray;
For if this Spirit dwells in you,
Twill lead you home to heaven too.

Written by Elihu Pedersen (published in 1956)Text © Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters ForlagNorway ⋅ F