Jesus Friend Of Little Children Be A
Verse 1
JESUS, Friend of little children, Be a friend to me; Take my hand, and ever keep me Close to Thee.
Verse 2
Teach me how to grow in goodness, Daily as I grow; Thou hast been a child, and surely Thou dost know.
Verse 3
Step by step O lead me onward, Upward into youth; Wiser, stronger, still becoming In Thy truth.
Verse 4
Never leave me, nor forsake me; Ever be my friend; For I need Thee, from life’s dawning To its end. Amen
Background: Jesus Friend Of Little Children Be A
The hymn "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" is one of the most cherished and widely sung pieces in Christian children's literature. Its gentle message and simple language have made it a beloved introduction to faith for generations.
Here's a look at its history, arranged to be easy to read:
---
The Beloved Hymn: "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" **1. The Words (The Author and Origin):** * **Author:** The Reverend **Walter John Mathams** (1853-1931). * **Year:** Mathams penned the words as a poem in **1883**. * **Background:** Mathams was a Baptist minister in England, known for his devotional writings and hymn texts. He had a deep understanding of children's spirituality and often wrote with them in mind. * **Intent:** He aimed to express a child's simple, trusting relationship with Jesus, echoing the biblical accounts of Jesus welcoming and blessing children (e.g., Matthew 19:14: "Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven"). **2. The Music (The Tune):** * **Flexibility:** Like many popular hymn texts, "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" has been set to various tunes over the years. * **Most Common Tune:** The most widely recognized melody for these words is often associated with the tune named **"NORTHAMPTON"** (sometimes known as "St. Denio" in certain hymn settings). * **Composer of Northampton:** This tune is traditionally attributed to **Henry John Gauntlett** (1800-1876), a prolific English organist and composer of hymn tunes. It's a simple, memorable melody that perfectly complements the words. **3. The Message and Appeal:** * **Core Idea:** At its core, the hymn articulates a child's heartfelt plea for Jesus' friendship, guidance, and protection. * **Key Themes:** * **Friendship:** Jesus as a loving and accessible friend. * **Guidance:** Asking for direction through life's journey. * **Protection:** Seeking safety and comfort in Jesus' care. * **Belonging:** The reassurance that children are important to Jesus. * **Simplicity:** Its direct language and gentle imagery make it easily understood and deeply felt by young children, helping them connect with spiritual concepts. **4. Its Enduring Legacy:** * **Popularity:** From its publication, the hymn quickly gained popularity and was widely included in Sunday school songbooks and children's hymnals across denominations. * **Sunday School Staple:** It became a staple in Sunday schools, children's church services, and family devotions, serving as a foundational piece for introducing children to Christian faith. * **Timelessness:** The hymn's timeless message of comfort, love, and divine friendship continues to resonate with both children and adults, reminding everyone of the simple, pure faith Jesus encourages. --- In essence, "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" is a beautiful example of a hymn that bridges the spiritual world with a child's understanding, thanks to the thoughtful words of Walter J. Mathams and the enduring melodies that carry its message.
The Beloved Hymn: "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" **1. The Words (The Author and Origin):** * **Author:** The Reverend **Walter John Mathams** (1853-1931). * **Year:** Mathams penned the words as a poem in **1883**. * **Background:** Mathams was a Baptist minister in England, known for his devotional writings and hymn texts. He had a deep understanding of children's spirituality and often wrote with them in mind. * **Intent:** He aimed to express a child's simple, trusting relationship with Jesus, echoing the biblical accounts of Jesus welcoming and blessing children (e.g., Matthew 19:14: "Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven"). **2. The Music (The Tune):** * **Flexibility:** Like many popular hymn texts, "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" has been set to various tunes over the years. * **Most Common Tune:** The most widely recognized melody for these words is often associated with the tune named **"NORTHAMPTON"** (sometimes known as "St. Denio" in certain hymn settings). * **Composer of Northampton:** This tune is traditionally attributed to **Henry John Gauntlett** (1800-1876), a prolific English organist and composer of hymn tunes. It's a simple, memorable melody that perfectly complements the words. **3. The Message and Appeal:** * **Core Idea:** At its core, the hymn articulates a child's heartfelt plea for Jesus' friendship, guidance, and protection. * **Key Themes:** * **Friendship:** Jesus as a loving and accessible friend. * **Guidance:** Asking for direction through life's journey. * **Protection:** Seeking safety and comfort in Jesus' care. * **Belonging:** The reassurance that children are important to Jesus. * **Simplicity:** Its direct language and gentle imagery make it easily understood and deeply felt by young children, helping them connect with spiritual concepts. **4. Its Enduring Legacy:** * **Popularity:** From its publication, the hymn quickly gained popularity and was widely included in Sunday school songbooks and children's hymnals across denominations. * **Sunday School Staple:** It became a staple in Sunday schools, children's church services, and family devotions, serving as a foundational piece for introducing children to Christian faith. * **Timelessness:** The hymn's timeless message of comfort, love, and divine friendship continues to resonate with both children and adults, reminding everyone of the simple, pure faith Jesus encourages. --- In essence, "Jesus, Friend of Little Children" is a beautiful example of a hymn that bridges the spiritual world with a child's understanding, thanks to the thoughtful words of Walter J. Mathams and the enduring melodies that carry its message.
![](".$web."ab-img/prayer.jpg)
