I have heard of a land
On the faraway strand
This a beautiful home of the soul
Built by Jesus on high
There we never shall die
This the land where we'll never grow old.
Never grow old, never grow old
In the land where we'll never grow old
Never grow old, never grow old
In the land where we'll never grow old.
--- Instrumental ---
When our work here is done
And the life's crown is won
And our troubles and trials are o'er
All our sorrow will end
And our voices will blend
With the loved ones who've gone on before.
Never grow old, never grow old
In the land where we'll never grow old
Never grow old, never grow old
In the land where we'll never grow old...
Gospel - Jim Reeves - Where We'll Never Grow Old
Where We'll Never Grow Old Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Jim Reeves' performance of "Where We'll Never Grow Old" is a beloved gospel standard, offering listeners a musical portrayal of Christian hope regarding the afterlife. The song speaks of a promised land described as a "beautiful home of the soul" situated on a "faraway strand." This location is explicitly stated as being "built by Jesus on high," establishing its divine origin and connection to Christian belief. The central promise of this heavenly place is its eternal nature, emphasizing that "there we never shall die" and, as the title and recurring theme highlight, it is "the land where we'll never grow old." The repetition of the phrase "Never grow old" in the chorus serves to reinforce this core concept of an eternal, youthful existence in heaven.
The lyrics progress to describe the transition from earthly life to this eternal home. It speaks of a time "when our work here is done" and "the life's crown is won," suggesting the completion of one's earthly journey and the receiving of a spiritual reward. The song paints a picture of relief from the struggles of this world, stating that "our troubles and trials are o'er" and "all our sorrow will end." A deeply comforting aspect of this future is the promise of reunion. The lyrics anticipate joining with "the loved ones who've gone on before," implying a joyful gathering of believers in heaven where "our voices will blend."
The song's meaning is deeply rooted in Christian eschatology, presenting heaven as the ultimate destination for believers. It embodies the hope for liberation from the limitations and suffering of mortal life – specifically, the cessation of aging, death, sorrow, and trials. This eternal dwelling place is depicted not just as a static location but as a vibrant home where relationships are restored and voices unite in praise or fellowship. The song's simple, direct language and its focus on tangible benefits like eternal youth and reunion contribute to its enduring appeal as an inspirational message.
Jim Reeves, known for his smooth, comforting vocal style, was well-suited to deliver the heartfelt message of this gospel hymn. While the specific date of his recording or popularization of this traditional piece can vary, the song itself became strongly associated with his body of gospel work. Reeves' delivery lends a sense of sincerity and peace to the lyrics, enhancing the song's ability to provide comfort and reinforce faith for many listeners.
The themes explored in "Where We'll Never Grow Old" resonate with several scriptural concepts. The idea of a dwelling place prepared by Jesus is echoed in John 14:2-3, where Jesus tells His disciples, "In my Father's house are many rooms... I am going there to prepare a place for you." The promise of an end to suffering and death is a prominent theme in Revelation 21:4, which speaks of a new heaven and earth where God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. The concept of eternal life itself is a cornerstone of Christian teaching, found throughout the New Testament, such as in John 3:16. The song encapsulates these biblical assurances of a glorious and eternal future for believers.
