Alan Jackson - I'll Fly Away Lyrics
Lyrics
Some glad morning when this life is o'er,
I'll fly away;
To a home on God's celestial shore,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
I'll fly away, Oh Glory
I'll fly away;
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
Just a few more weary days and then,
I'll fly away;
To a land where joy shall never end,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away)
I'll fly away, Oh Glory
I'll fly away;
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,
I'll fly away (I'll fly away).
Video
I'll Fly Away
Meaning & Inspiration
Alan Jackson’s rendition of "I'll Fly Away," released on February 28, 2006, as part of his profoundly personal album *Precious Memories*, offers far more than a simple musical performance; it’s a soul-stirring affirmation of timeless Christian hope. This album, born from Jackson’s desire to honor his mother’s faith and share foundational hymns, presents this classic spiritual with an earnest simplicity that allows its powerful message to shine without distraction. The song itself, penned by Albert E. Brumley in 1929, has long served as an anthem of assurance, articulating the believer's aspiration for the heavenly realm beyond earthly trials. Jackson’s faithful interpretation ensures that its core theological tenets resonate with unwavering clarity, echoing the longing for redemption that has comforted generations.
The opening lines immediately set a tone of expectant faith, speaking of a "glad morning when this life is o'er," and the subsequent flight to "a home on God's celestial shore." This is not a morbid contemplation of death, but rather an eager anticipation of transition, a joyful departure from the temporal to the eternal. Scripture frequently describes the believer's earthly existence as temporary and often fraught with struggle, a journey towards a promised dwelling. Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:1, speaks of our earthly tent being destroyed, only to receive "a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." This heavenly "home" is further illuminated in John 14:2-3, where Jesus promises His disciples, "In my Father’s house are many rooms... I go to prepare a place for you." The imagery of "flying away" beautifully conveys a swift, unburdened ascension, a liberation from the gravity of earthly suffering into the lightness of eternal rest.
The recurring chorus, with its fervent exclamations of "Oh Glory" and "Hallelujah," underscores the sheer joy and triumph inherent in this heavenly transition. These aren't just filler words; they are profound expressions of worship and praise, anticipating the moment when faith becomes sight. "Glory" speaks to the very presence and majesty of God, as seen in Romans 8:18 where Paul declares that "the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." "Hallelujah," a direct command to "praise the Lord," reflects the unending adoration that will characterize the heavenly host, as described in Revelation 7:9-10, where a great multitude stands before the throne, crying out "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" The phrase "by and by" reminds us that while this glorious event is future, it is an assured future, a certainty held firmly in Christian doctrine.
The song then thoughtfully acknowledges the often arduous nature of the present existence, referring to "just a few more weary days." This line deeply connects with the human experience, recognizing the toil, sorrow, and burdens that characterize life in a fallen world. Yet, this weariness is framed as temporary, a brief prelude to an unending state of peace. Matthew 11:28-30 offers solace to those who are heavy-laden, with Jesus inviting, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." This rest is not merely a cessation of effort but an entrance into "a land where joy shall never end." Revelation 21:4 paints a vivid picture of this eternal joy, promising a time when God "will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Isaiah 35:10 likewise promises that "the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads."
Alan Jackson’s presentation of "I'll Fly Away" serves as a powerful spiritual anchor, reminding us that the hope of heaven is not a vague wish but a cornerstone of Christian faith. It's an encouragement to persevere through "weary days" with the blessed assurance of an ultimate, glorious destination. The song doesn’t shy away from the reality of death, but rather transforms it into a joyous gateway to an eternal home, a celestial shore where God's presence brings everlasting peace and joy. It is a timeless declaration of faith, perfectly suited to inspire and uplift, directing hearts and minds towards the divine promises that sustain believers through every season of life.