Happy town of Salem, set on Zion’s hill!
Happy hearts of pilgrims, could they see it still!
He that follows Jesus, He that dares the right,
Sees the lights of Salem gleam across the night.
Happy town of Salem, with the jasper wall!
In its many mansions there is room for all.
“Come to Me,” says Jesus, “I will give you rest,”
And the town of Salem gathers all the blest.
Happy town of Salem, happy little feet
Of the children playing in the golden street!
“Let them come,” says Jesus, “and forbid them not”;
But the proud in Salem have no part or lot.
Happy town of Salem, with its open gates!
Happy are the pilgrims whom a welcome waits!
In the Name of Jesus, they an entrance claim,
And the guards of Salem answer, “In His Name.”
Happy town of Salem, vision true of peace,
Seen above earth’s strivings, steadfast when they cease!
“Take thy cross,” says Jesus, and the narrow way
Brings the feet to Salem at the break of day.