I WANT TO BE THERE by Smith Sharp

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 14, 1876

I WANT TO BE THERE.

By Smith Sharp

I have heard of a glorious land where a people will live whose sins have been forgiven them; and I want to see that land and live with its inhabitants.

I have heard of the society of that country, and I think it will be good, and I want to enjoy it. The people that live there are redeemed beings. They are a chosen company, composed of the really good from each generation. Holy men of old that walked with God will be there. Adam can tell us of the temptation and fall, and of his feelings when he first heard the story of redemption. Moses can tell us of the forty-years’ journey in the wilderness, and of his view of the promised land.

I want to be there to see the angels and hear them talk and sing and tell of their visits to us here when we were discouraged and ready to fall. I want to walk with them on the street that leads by the throne of God, and along the river of life. I want to be there to behold the majesty of the King of that country, and to see the glory that he had before he left it to come down to this fallen world. I want to be there to see him when he looks at the redeemed company; and I want to hear him when he says, I behold the travail of my soul and am satisfied, and to see him as he shows the redeemed the glories of that land and says, These rich glories are yours to enjoy forever.

I want to be there to join with the angels and redeemed in adoring Him who has done so much for me. I want to be there to spend an endless life to the glory of Him who has forgiven my iniquities and washed me with his blood. I want to be with that great company that will say, “Thou art worthy, for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation.” Oh! I must be there.

SMITH SHARP.