Jesus Is Tenderly Calling

Jonathan Anderson • July 16, 2025

“Jesus Is Tenderly Calling” is a hymn that speaks softly — not with pressure, but with love. It’s a gentle invitation, not a demand. Through every note and word, it reminds us that Christ doesn’t shout from a distance — He calls to us with patience, compassion, and open arms.

The Story Behind the Hymn

The lyrics were written by Fanny J. Crosby in 1883, a writer known for capturing both the power and gentleness of the gospel in her hymns. She wrote this particular hymn during a time when many revival services focused on personal surrender. Her desire was to reflect the tender side of Christ — the Savior who calls softly, again and again.


The music was composed by George C. Stebbins, a skilled evangelistic song leader who often collaborated with Crosby. His melody gave the hymn its inviting, reflective tone. Over time, “Jesus Is Tenderly Calling” became a regular part of altar calls and revival meetings, sung as people responded to the love of Christ.


What Makes It Powerful

Unlike hymns that shout with triumph, this one whispers with grace. It reminds us that Jesus is always near — always calling — even when we’ve wandered, waited, or ignored Him. It’s a hymn of invitation: not to religion, but to relationship.


A verse that reflects the heart of this hymn is Matthew 11:28–29 (NIV):

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

That’s the voice this hymn reflects — not stern, but gentle and humble. The kind of voice that still calls today.


My Violin Cover

When I arranged “Jesus Is Tenderly Calling” for violin, I focused on the tenderness. I played it slowly, letting each note speak with care and quiet invitation. There’s no rush in this hymn — just gentle repetition, like a Savior who keeps calling because He loves.


With Violin Hymns, I always try to reflect the feeling behind the song. For this one, the feeling was warmth — a reminder that grace is near.



Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, don’t just hear the melody — listen for the voice of Jesus behind it. He still calls. Gently. Patiently. Lovingly. Jesus is tenderly calling you home — calling today, calling today.

Lyrics


Jesus is tenderly calling thee home-

Calling today, calling today;

Why from the sunshine of love wilt thou roam

Farther and farther away?


Calling today,

Calling today,

Jesus is calling,

Is tenderly calling today.


Jesus is calling the weary to rest-

Calling today, calling today;

Bring Him thy burden and thou shalt be blest-

He will not turn thee away.


Jesus is waiting; O come to Him now-

Waiting today, waiting today;

Come with thy sins, at His feet lowly bow-

Come, and no longer delay. 


Jesus is pleading; O list to His voice-

Hear Him today, hear Him today;

They who believe on His name shall rejoice-

Quickly arise and away.

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