I wrote this new hymn text in memory of a dear friend who went home to glory in 2020. He was encouraging and challenging his family, friends, and church right to the end. On the morning of his death, he was quoting Philippians 1:21… “To live is Christ, and to die is gain!” On a personal note, his final text to me ended with these two words: “Keep preaching!” He was clinging to and declaring the promises of God with his final breath. Following his passing, the Lord laid some thoughts heavy on my heart that ended up taking the shape of a poem. The dedication for this song says this: “In memory of Pastor Don Eckert (1958-2020): devoted husband, loving father, true friend, gracious mentor, & faithful servant of Christ. Founding pastor of Guahan Baptist Church, Ipan Talofofo, Guam & beloved teacher at H.B.B.C., Barrigada, Guam.” This new hymn was recently included on the most recent album released by The Wilds, entitled: Christ, My Treasure.

Sheet Music: FULL SHEET

Here are the words (rooted in Philippians 1:21)…

In ev’ry hardship that we face,
Christ’s faithful servants must embrace
A truth at times misunderstood:
Life is not fair, but God is good!

When pain and loss unsettle life,
When unity is torn by strife,
When bitter biting tempests blow,
And sorrows wreck the peace we know,
When all else fails, this truth remains:
To live is Christ; to die is gain.
To live is Christ; to die is gain.
To live is Christ; to die is gain.

Count all as loss save knowing Christ,
Our burden-bearing sacrifice.
His merit is our only plea
Both now and through eternity.
Take up the cross that bears His name:
To live is Christ; to die is gain!
To live is Christ; to die is gain!
To live is Christ; to die is gain.

Embrace the hope that makes us strong
And boldly sing this pilgrim song
Rejoice! For Christ our risen King
Has conquered death and crushed its sting.
Join saints above in this refrain:
To live is Christ; to die is gain!
To live is Christ; to die is gain!
To live is Christ; to die is gain.

This lyric video includes the beautiful recording (made by The Wilds) of my text…

The sheet music of the choral arrangement can be purchased from their Online Store.