Beyond The Sunset, O Blissful Morning

“Beyond the Sunset, O Blissful Morning” is a beloved hymn written in 1936 by Virgil P. Brock with musical arrangement by his wife, Blanche Kerr Brock. The song’s inspiration came during an evening drive with Brock’s blind cousin, Horace Burr, and their wives, as they admired a beautiful Indiana sunset. Although Burr could not see it, he vividly described what he imagined, saying the scene made him think of a place “beyond the sunset” where there would be no more goodbyes. This conversation deeply moved Brock, leading him to write this touching hymn of eternal hope and peace.

The hymn reflects a strong biblical foundation, echoing Revelation 21:4 and John 14:2-3, where Christ promises a home prepared for His people. Each stanza paints a serene and comforting picture of heaven, emphasizing that in Christ, death loses its sting, and believers can anticipate eternal joy in God’s presence. The refrain reinforces this theme with its emphasis on a glorious reunion with the Lord and loved ones, free from earthly pain and sorrow. Written during the Great Depression, this hymn brought encouragement to countless believers who found solace in its reminder of heaven’s glory.

Virgil P. Brock was a prolific gospel songwriter, penning more than 500 songs, but “Beyond the Sunset” remains his most enduring and widely loved work. The hymn has been recorded by many notable artists, including country and gospel singers, and is often chosen for funerals and memorial services because of its tender assurance of life beyond death. Blanche Brock’s hauntingly beautiful melody complements the lyrics perfectly, giving the hymn an atmosphere of calm reverence and joyful anticipation. Over the decades, it has become one of the most cherished gospel hymns of the twentieth century, continuing to inspire hope and strengthen faith in God’s eternal promises.