Jesus Is Calling You

As a young man, Will Thompson began writing hymns that expressed what God had done for him. Often he felt inspiration at odd times of the day, no matter where he was, “at home or hotel, at the store or traveling.”

Thompson, who was born in Ohio in 1847, could not find a publisher for his hymns. Eventually, he started his own publishing company. But he continued to write.

In 1880, he wrote a hymn that expressed his gratitude for the call of Jesus on his life. He expressed the gentle way in which Jesus spoke to him: “Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals He’s waiting and watching, watching for you and for me.”

Thompson knew that he found comfort and acceptance in Jesus’ arms. There was no need to run away or feel lonely. And he wanted others to hear Jesus’ tender, merciful call as well: “Come home, come home, You who are weary, come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home!”

Thompson felt that Jesus was pleading for each of us, for His mercies were available to everyone. But we needed to respond to His call, and Thompson expressed a great sense of urgency in this: “Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me.” Time was growing short, but Jesus promised forgiveness, if we simply would answer His call.

Right now, Jesus offers you peace, hope, love, forgiveness, and joy. Don’t run away, but come into His arms. He is calling you!