When wandering far from the Father's abode

1 When wandering far from the Father's abode,
The heart full of pride and hatred to God,
The children of darkness, of Satan the slaves,
'Twas Jesus redeemed us--His merit that saves.

2 Our sins on the cross He on Calvary bore,
He blotted them out and they are no more;
Now pardoned and washed we boldly draw near,
And cry "Abba, Father!" unhindered by fear.

3 Despised by the world, we're strangers below,
But called to heaven we cheerfully go;
The Lord is our Leader, and, strong in His might,
Tho' Satan opposes, we fight the good fight.

4 We look for the day when Jesus shall come,
And take all His blood-purchased brethren home;
When we shall behold all His glory and grace,
And a heaven be found in the light of His face.

Source: A Few Hymns and Some Spiritual Songs. Selected 1856, for the Little Flock. Revised, 1881 #63