A hymn by Benjamin Keach (1640-1704)

Hebrews 11:13 – speaking of ancient saints – tells us “They died in faith,” having confessed “they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.”

Lord, we are Pilgrims on the Earth,
As all our Fathers were;
For this is not our dwelling-place,
No biding for us here.

As Pilgrims go uphill and down,
And meet with troubles do;
So, Lord, thy Saints, while they are here,
Do many sorrows know.

A Pilgrim is a Stranger in
Those places where he lyes,
And therefore is not taken with
Those things which he espies,

Or doth behold where he doth come:
What are these things to me?
Saith a poor Saint; I must be gone,
I better things do see.

A Pilgrim loves good company,
Don’t care to go alone;
So do God’s saints delight in such
Who do Christ Jesus own;

And walk with them in the same way,
If that they be sincere,
They prize their precious company,
They helpful to each are.

A Pilgrim, when he’s come near home,
He greatly doth rejoice;
O let such Saints whose work’s near done,
Lift up with joy their voice.