Must I Go, and Empty-Handed?
By Charles C. Luther
Lyrics
Thus my dear Redeemer meet?
Not one day of service give Him,
Lay no trophy at His feet?
“Must I go, and empty handed?”
Must I meet my Savior so?
Not one soul with which to greet Him:
Must I empty handed go?
For my Savior saves me now;
But to meet Him empty-handed,
Thought of that now clouds my brow.
Could I but recall them now,
I would give them to my Savior,
To His will I’d gladly bow.
Up and work while yet ’tis day;
Ere the night of death o’ertake you,
Strive for souls while still you may.
Bible Reference
1 John 2:28
About This Hymn
Must I Go, and Empty-Handed? was inspired by the testimony of a young man who had come to faith but passed away shortly after, with regret that he had no opportunity to serve Christ. Charles Luther, a former journalist and pastor, wrote the poignant lyrics reflecting on the sorrow of entering eternity with no souls won for Christ. George Stebbins, a prominent gospel composer, added the moving melody shortly afterward.
The hymn became a compelling call to Christian service and soul-winning, often used in evangelistic meetings and revival settings.
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Hymn Information
- Category: Hymn
- Author/Writer: Charles C. Luther (1877)
- Added: May 19, 2025
- Last Updated: May 19, 2025
- Views: 535
MIDI File
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