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February 27, 2011

I’d Rather Have Jesus

Categories: Music Poetry

It’s been a while since I’ve put “pen to paper”. This poem was inspired by a desire to make music more relevant to our Christian experience. Also motivated by some poetic Christian writers I know. 🙂

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I’d rather have Jesus – A modern day take

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold,
Because those can get stolen… them thieves getting quite bold;
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands,
Don’t want no high mortgages, or squatters on my hands.

Than to be the king of a vast domain,
I’d leave it to Obama I say;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
‘Cause here isn’t where I want to stay.

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause,
I can do without the secular attention it draws,
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame,
For your friends will eat you out, and then leave you in shame.

Than to be the king of a vast domain,
Wouldn’t miss the pomp and display;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
So I think I’ll try the narrow way.

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom,
…much better than crocus, or the lowly mushroom
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs,
I feel sorry for the people that KFC feeds.

Than to be the king of a vast domain,
That earthly stuff I’ll gladly downplay;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
And I’m hoping to meet Him one day.

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(The original lyrics to this hymn are here: http://sdahymnals.com/hymnals/?p=730)