Walk with Thee

“Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.” Psalm 86:11a 

The traditional gospel song, “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” is one of my favorite hymns.  When I researched its origin, I was surprised to learn that the author of the words is unknown and the music is anonymous.  Circumstantial evidence suggests it dates back to southern African-American churches of the 19th century.  It became better known nationally in the 1930s when African-American churches held huge musical conventions.  

Recordings of  “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” began in the early 1940s.  Well-known artists who recorded it include Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson, Elvis, Johnny Cash and Randy Travis. 

In 1997 when I was selected as Nebraska Mother of the Year, I planned an ecumenical worship service.  Music shared included our two daughters and spouses singing as a quartet, “Just a Closer Walk With Thee.”  They began singing the first verse, in a slow tempo: 

“I am weak, but Thou art strong;

Jesus, keep me from all wrong;

I’ll be satisfied as long

As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.”

 

As the refrain began, the tempo accelerated:

 

“Just a closer walk with Thee,

Grant it, Jesus is my plea,

Daily walking close to Thee,

Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.”

 

An African-American chorus, scheduled later as part of the service, joined in. What a memorable moment! The blending of joyous voices reminded us that we can all walk together close to Thee.

 

Prayer: O Lord, teach me your way, that I may walk in your truth. Amen.
 
Lois Poppe (reprinted from November 2017, in memory of Lois)