Come to the Savior Now is the first hymn I re-tuned, and it seems like ages ago. Something about the simplicity of the lyric and message fell perfectly into place with the likewise simple tune that effortlessly popped into my mind. I had been leafing through the red Trinity Hymnal, wondering if I had the chops (or right) to put a new melody to an old hymn, when I turned the page and saw the first three words from a verse under the hymn’s title:
“Come to me.”
The full verse is “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matt. 11:28
But it was those three words that rang out in my mind. Come to me… Nothing could be simpler, or more profound. Often when my faith has felt stale, or just by rote, automatic…I sense that Jesus is always there, near me, pursuing me, waiting for me to turn around and recognize and take hold of his grace and eternal promises. To come to him and rest in his abundant mercy and love.
The tune sprang out as if fully written and meant for the words printed there. I picked up my guitar and put a few chords to it…about five minutes later I had my first re-tuned hymn. Since then I’ve re-tuned dozens of hymns, but I don’t recall any of them falling into my head with such ease, as if it was a gift and a clear message to continue.
The words to the hymn were written by John Murch Wigner (1844-1911), a Baptist lay preacher from England. He was a compiler of the English Hymnal Psalms and Hymns for School and Home, and was active in the Children’s Special Service Mission. Makes sense since he and his wife loved kids and had twelve of their own!
Come to the Savior Now was written in 1871, and is considered a hymn of invitation. It implores sinners to turn to Christ, to cast all their burdens and cares on his infinite grace and love. I hope you enjoy this hymn and its beautiful message and promise.
— Matt
Come to the Saviour now, He gently calleth thee;
In true repentance bow, before Him bend the knee;
By grace He will bestow salvation, peace, and love,
True joy on earth below, a home in heav’n above.
Come to the Saviour now, you who have wandered far;
Renew your solemn vow, for His by right you are;
Come, like poor wand’ring sheep returning to His fold;
His arm will safely keep, His love will ne’er grow cold.
Come to the Saviour, all, whate’er your burdens be;
Hear now His loving call, ‘cast all your care on Me.’
Come, and for ev’ry grief in Jesus you will find
A sure and safe relief, a loving Friend and kind.
Lead Sheet / Chords
Lyric: John M. Wigner, 1871 / Music: M.H. Curl, 2002
Recorded by Jordan Leff
Vocals/Guitar: M.H. Curl
Classical Guitar: Jordan Leff
Background Vocals: Dana Dirksen
Accordion: Lanai Hoyt