This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Columbia
Staff Notation • Secular
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3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
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Columbia by Alexander Johnson — Lyrics
Mercer's Cluster, 1810
1. O how I have longed for the coming of God
And sought him by praying and searching his word,
To fasting and weeping my soul was pressed,
Nor would I give over till Jesus had blessed.
2. The tokens of mercy at length did appear,
According to promise he answered with prayer,
To Israel, salvation from Zion doth roll,
And glory is risen and beams on my soul.
3. The good news of mercy is spreading abroad,
And sinners are crying and turning to God,
Their tears of contrition now pour like a flood,
And some have found favor in Jesus’s blood.
4. Here’s more, my dear Jesus, that fall at thy feet,
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About Columbia
Alexander Johnson composed Columbia for STB voices. This piece is a secular work sung in English, with the text originating from "Mercer's Cluster" in 1810. The lyrics express a profound longing for divine presence, the joy of spiritual discovery, and the spreading of good news. The music reflects this journey, moving from fervent searching and penitence to the elation of receiving a blessing and witnessing the salvation of others. The text speaks of tears of contrition and the overwhelming desire for divine favour, painting a vivid picture of spiritual awakening and communal rejoicing in faith.
