The United Methodist Hymnal

580

Lead On, O King Eternal

1.	Lead on, O King eternal, 
	the day of march has come; 
	henceforth in fields of conquest 
	thy tents shall be our home. 
	Through days of preparation 
	thy grace has made us strong; 
	and now, O King eternal, 
	we lift our battle song.

2.	Lead on, O King eternal, 
	till sin's fierce war shall cease, 
	and holiness shall whisper 
	the sweet amen of peace. 
	For not with swords loud clashing, 
	nor roll of stirring drums; 
	with deeds of love and mercy 
	the heavenly kingdom comes.

3.	Lead on, O King eternal, 
	we follow, not with fears, 
	for gladness breaks like morning
	where'er thy face appears. 
	Thy cross is lifted o'er us, 
	we journey in its light; 
	the crown awaits the conquest; 
	lead on, O God of might.

WORDS: Ernest W. Shurtleff, 1887
MUSIC: Henry T. Smart, 1835
Theme: Church: Education; Closing Hymns; Guidance; Installation Services; Kingdom Of God; Mission and Outreach; Ordination; Peace, World; Pilgrimage; The Nature of the Church: Called to God's Mission; Zeal