There is a spot to me more dear Than native vale or mountain; A spot for which affection’s tear Springs grateful from its fountain. ’Tis not where kindred souls abound, Though that is almost Heaven, But where I first my Savior found, And felt my sins forgiven.
Hard was my toil to reach the shore, Long tossed upon the ocean; Above me was the thunder’s roar, Beneath, the wave’s commotion. Darkly the pall of night was thrown Around me faint with terror; In that dark hour how did my groan Ascend for years of error.
Sinking and panting as for breath I knew not help was near me; I cried, “Oh, save me, Lord, from death, Immortal Jesus, hear me.” Then quick as thought I felt Him mine, My Savior stood before me; I saw His brightness round me shine, And shouted, “Glory, glory!”
O sacred hour! O hallowed spot! Where love divine first found me; Wherever falls my distant lot, My heart shall linger round thee. And when from earth I rise, to soar Up to my home in Heaven, Down will I cast my eyes once more, Where I was first forgiven.
Sources:
The Cyber Hymnal (http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/h/a/l/hallowed.htm)