1. Must Jesus bear the cross alone and all the world go free? No, there’s a cross for ev’ry one, and there’s a cross for me. 2. The consecrated cross I’ll bear till death shall set me free, and then go home my crown to wear, for there’s a crown for me. 3. Upon the crystal pavement, down at Jesus’ pierced feet, joyful, I’ll cast my golden crown, and His dear name repeat. 4. O precious cross! O glorious crown! O resurrection day! Ye angels, from the stars come down, And bear my soul away.

Optional second verse. (2.) How happy are the saints above, who once went sorrowing here! But now they taste unmingled love and joy without a tear.

The tune originally titled MAITLAND has no known composer but is commonly attributed to George Nelson Allen (1812-1871). They lyrics first appeared in Oberlin Social and Sabbath School Hymn Book (1846). The lyrics “Must Jesus’ bear the cross alone” were used by Thomas Dorsey in his song “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” in 1932. In an interview Dorsey stated that he was inspired by Blind Connie Williams version of “Precious Lord“.