Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

In the Garden

C. Austin Miles

An American pharmacist and gospel music publisher (1868–1946). In April 1912, while sitting in his darkroom waiting for photographic film to develop, Miles read his favorite scripture: John 20, describing Mary Magdalene finding the empty tomb. In a visionary moment, he felt as if he were standing in the garden with them. He wrote 'In the Garden' that same day to capture the intimate, personal fellowship that every believer can share with the risen Savior.

Source: Public-domain pre-1931 hymn publication

I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses;
And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,
The Son of God discloses.
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own,
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
He speaks, and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing;
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.
I'd stay in the garden with Him
Tho' the night around me be falling;
But He bids me go; thro' the voice of woe,
His voice to me is calling.
The Old Rugged Cross