Lead Me to Calvary
“Lead Me to Calvary” is a hymn of remembrance and surrender. It’s not just about recalling what Jesus did — it’s about letting the reality of the cross change us. This hymn is a prayer that our hearts never grow numb to the cost of our salvation, and that we live each day in the shadow of Calvary.
The Story Behind the Hymn
This hymn was written by Jennie Evelyn Hussey in 1921. Though she lived a quiet life in New Hampshire, Jennie endured chronic pain from arthritis and cared for her disabled sister for many years. Despite her suffering, she wrote dozens of hymns, often centered on themes of sacrifice and devotion.
“Lead Me to Calvary” reflects her deep personal faith and longing to stay close to Jesus’ sacrifice. The music was composed by William J. Kirkpatrick, a prolific composer of gospel melodies who added a tender, solemn tone that perfectly fits the message.
What Makes It Powerful
This hymn is powerful because it doesn’t treat the crucifixion as a past event to simply admire. It brings it into the present — reminding us to live in response to it. It asks for a softened heart, a surrendered will, and a life that honors the cross.
A verse that mirrors this cry is Luke 9:23 (NIV):
Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
“Lead Me to Calvary” is a daily prayer — not just to remember Christ’s sacrifice, but to live in its light.
My Violin Cover
When I arranged “Lead Me to Calvary” for violin, I wanted the music to feel sincere and reverent. The melody is gentle and pleading, so I played it with a soft tone, letting each note linger. It’s not meant to be dramatic — it’s meant to draw the listener into quiet reflection.
With Violin Hymns, I aim to express the heart of each hymn, and this one is about humble gratitude.
Listen and Reflect
The video is below. As you listen, let this hymn guide your thoughts back to the cross. Ask God to keep your heart tender — to never forget the price Jesus paid, and to live every day in response to that love. Lest I forget Gethsemane… lead me to Calvary.
Lyrics
King of my life I crown Thee now,
Thine shall the glory be;
lest I forget Thy thorn-crowned brow,
lead me to Calvary.
Lest I forget Gethsemane,
lest I forget Thine agony,
lest I forget Thy love for me,
lead me to Calvary.
Show me the tomb where Thou wast laid,
tenderly mourned and wept;
angels in robes of light arrayed
guarded Thee whilst Thou slept.
Let me like Mary, through the gloom,
come with a gift to Thee;
show to me now the empty tomb,
lead me to Calvary.
May I be willing, Lord, to bear
daily my cross for Thee;
even Thy cup of grief to share,
Thou hast borne all for me.
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