Perhaps the best hymn-expression of sacred brotherhood, at least it has had, and still has the endorsement of constant use. The author, John Fawcett, D.D., is always quoted as the example of his own words, since he sacrificed ambition and personal interest to Christian affection. Born near Bradford, Yorkshire, Jan. 6, 1739, and converted under the preaching of Whitefield, he joined the Methodists, but afterwards became a member of the new Baptist church in Bradford. Seven years later he was ordained over the Baptist Society at Wainsgate. In 1772 he received a call to succeed the celebrated Dr. Gill, in London, and accepted. But at the last moment, when his goods were packed for removal, the clinging love of his people, weeping their farewells around him, melted his heart. Their passionate regrets were more than either he or his good wife could withstand. "I will _stay_," he said; "you may unpack my goods, and we will live for the Lord lovingly together." It was out of this heart experience that the tender hymn was born. Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one, Our comforts and our cares. Dr. Fawcett died July 25, 1817. Tune, "Boylston," L. Mason; or "Dennis," H.G. Naegeli.
Blest be the tie that binds Our hearts in Christian love; The fellowship of kindred minds Is like to that above. Before our Father’s throne We pour our ardent prayers; Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one Our comforts and our cares.
We share each other’s woes, Our mutual burdens bear; And often for each other flows The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part, It gives us inward pain; But we shall still be joined in heart, And hope to meet again.
This glorious hope revives Our courage by the way; While each in expectation lives, And longs to see the day.
From sorrow, toil and pain, And sin, we shall be free, And perfect love and friendship reign Through all eternity.
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