Simplicity is good. A 19th-century poem radiates this truth. Anna Bartlett Warner wrote a poem for a Sunday School teacher, Mr. Linden. He had a student, Johnny Fax. Who was Johnny Fax? Linden wanted to comfort this young lad.
Anna Warner’s poem first appeared in her sister’s novel, Say and Seal (1860) consisting of four stanzas. Later, William Batchelder Bradbury added the refrain and tune. The 1862 publication of Golden Shower of S.S. Melodies was the song’s first appearance in print. (“Jesus Loves Me” has several revised editions in English and other languages).
Did you know the original “Jesus Loves Me” has three other meaningful stanzas? Below is Warner’s poem with Bradbury’s refrain.
Jesus loves me, this I know, For the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong; They are weak and he is strong. Refrain: Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me, he who died, Heaven’s Gate to open wide. He will wash away my sin; Let his little children in. Refrain: Jesus loves me, loves me still, Though I’m very weak and ill. From his shining throne on high, Comes to watch me where I lie. Refrain:
Jesus loves me! He will stay Close beside me all the way. If I love him, when I die He will take me home on high. Refrain.
These simple words have reassured children and adults of God’s love for decades. We will meet Johnny in heaven.
