The race for 2026 has begun, and I’m still at the gate. How are you doing?

Whether you are ahead, stuck in the middle, or lagging behind, take heart. The year is still young. Extend yourself some grace. Make a plan. Keep your eyes on the finish line. God is with us.

This month’s hymn is an encouraging word about winning the race and receiving the prize. Let’s take a look.

Author

Oren Adolphus Parris (1897-1966), a native of Jefferson County, Alabama, served as a bugler in World War I. A prolific songwriter, he became a key figure in the publishing business. In 1997, he was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Song

I am on the upward road, leading to that bright abode,
Where forever my soul shall be free;
Won’t that be a happy time, heaven’s bells will sweetly chime,
When the home gates swing open for me.

But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city (Hebrews 11:16).

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 22:5).

That will be a happy day,
When the clouds have passed away
From my cares I shall be free,
When the home gates swing open for me.

Tho’ sometime the path may lead thru the vale of sin and greed,
Jesus ever my refuge will be;
Soon at home my trials o’er, I shall praise Him evermore,
When the home gates swing open for me.

There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13).

But let all those that take refuge in thee rejoice, Let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: Let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee (Psalm 5:11).

I’ll keep walking in His light, till my faith shall end in sight,
He will lead me till safe o’er the sea;
I shall find a welcome there, and a crown of glory wear,
When the home gates swing open for me.

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him (1 Corinthians 2:9).

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).

When the Home Gates Swing Open (1927) | Oren Adolphus Parris | Public Domain

Be strong. Take courage. The Lord is on our side.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen (Revelation 22:21).