Abide With Me by Lora Clement

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. · Sep 19, 1912

"Abide With Me"

By Lora Clement

ON the eastern coast of Devonshire, England, is the ancient little seaport town of Brixham. This parish, composed for the most part of hardy fisherfolk, was under the care of Rev. Henry Francis Lyte for twenty-five years, who labored faithfully for his beloved people, though all the while suffering from that dread disease, consumption. While still in the prime of life, the time came when he realized that his work would soon be over, and he earnestly prayed that he might be permitted to do something that would point humanity to the risen Saviour after he had gone to his rest.

In the autumn of 1847 the physicians informed Mr. Lyte that he must give up his work, and spend the winter in Italy. On the last Sabbath of his stay in England, September 5, he preached for the last time to his little flock, and celebrated with them the Lord's Supper. "In words of melting tenderness he pleaded with his people to live holy lives; and when he took his leave of them, there was scarcely a dry eye in the church. The day had been well-nigh perfect, and in the late afternoon, recovering somewhat from the strain of the service, the pastor walked slowly and feebly down the terraced walk to the water he loved so well, and which he was about to leave forever. The benediction of autumn rested upon land and sea, and God's smile was over all." As the bright sunset colors faded into twilight, he made his way home in prayerful silence, and immediately retired to his room. "It was in that hour that the great hymn 'Abide With Me,' doubtless conceived in the walk by the sea, had its birth." When he joined his family a little later, he bore in his hand the words that were destined to be a blessing to humanity so long as the heart turns to the Father above for help in time of need. His prayer for the privilege of service had been answered.

The actual use of this hymn in church services dates from 1861, when it was published with the now-familiar tune in "Hymns Ancient and Modern." "After one of the meetings of the committee which compiled that book, it was suddenly remembered that there was no tune for hymn No. 27, 'Abide With Me;' whereupon Dr. Monk, the musical editor, sat down, and composed in ten minutes the tune that has carried 'Abide With Me' to the ends of the earth."