There’s something deeply comforting about the promise of a glorious reunion beyond this life, and “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder” captures that sentiment with an inspiring and timeless melody. Written by James Milton Black in 1893, this hymn is more than a song—it’s a beacon of hope for anyone who believes in the eternal. It speaks to the yearning in every soul for connection, for belonging, and for the reassurance that love transcends the limits of time and space.
The lyrics feel like a gentle reminder that life is fleeting, but the bonds we form and the lives we touch have a lasting significance. The roll call imagery—a celestial roster of those who will be gathered together in heaven—is both vivid and profoundly uplifting. As the song proclaims, it’s a joyous affirmation that, come what may, the faithful will find their place when the final tally is taken.
Musically, the hymn’s steady rhythm and uplifting melody make it a favorite in congregations around the world. Whether sung in a quiet church service or belted out at a lively revival, it has a way of stirring hearts and lifting spirits. Its simplicity allows the message to shine, letting the listener focus on the hope and faith it conveys.
For many, this hymn evokes memories of loved ones and cherished moments of faith. It’s the kind of song that gets passed down through generations, with grandparents teaching it to their grandchildren and churches keeping it alive in their hymnals. It’s not just a song—it’s a touchstone, a reminder of the shared hope that binds communities together.
This hymn is a call to live a life of purpose and faith, so that, when that roll is called up yonder, your name is written there. It’s a powerful, soul-stirring reminder to hold on to what truly matters, even in the face of life’s trials
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Lyrics
When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and time shall be no more
And the morning breaks eternal bright and fair
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise
And the glory of His resurrection share
When His chosen ones are gathered to their home beyond the skies
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
Let us labor for the Master from the dawn ’til setting sun
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care
Then when all of life is over and our work on earth is done
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there)
When the roll is called up yonder
(When the roll is called up yonder)
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there