Steal away, steal away
Steal away to Jesus
Steal away, steal away home
I ain't got long to stay here
I was walkin' in Savannah, passed the church decayed and dimed
When there's slowly through the window came a plaintive funeral hymn
And a sympathy awakened an' a wonder quickly grew
Till I found myself seat in a little negro pew
Out at front a young couple sat in sorrow, nearly wild
And on the altar was a coffin and in the coffin lay a child
Rows of sad old negro preacher at his little wooden desk
With a manner grandly awkward with the countless grotesque
And he said now don't be weepin' for this little bit of clay
For the little boy who lived there he done gone and run away
He's was doin' very finely and he appreaciated your love
But it's sure enough father want him in the large house up above
Now he didn't give you that baby by a hundred thousand miles
He just think you need some sunshine and he lend it for awhile
He let you keep and love it till your hearts were bigger grown
And these silver tears you have shed that's just interest on the loan
So my poor dejected mourners let your hearts with Jesus rest
And don't go criticizein' no one the one that knows the best
He gives us many comforts he's ever right to take away
To the Lord be praised in glory now and ever, let us pray
My Lord calls me, He calls me by the thunder
The trumpet sounds within my soul
I ain't got long to stay here
"Steal Away" by Merle Haggard is a powerful and soulful song that touches on themes of longing for spiritual freedom and finding solace in Jesus. The song carries a deep sense of emotion and resonates with listeners on a spiritual level.
The lyrics of the song speak of stealing away to Jesus, finding refuge and comfort in Him. It captures the longing for a better place, a home away from the struggles and challenges of this world. Haggard's voice carries a sense of urgency and longing, drawing the listener in and making them feel the weight of the lyrics.
The song's inspiration can be traced back to the African American spiritual tradition. The phrase "steal away" refers to the slaves' desire to escape from their oppressive conditions and find freedom. It is a cry for deliverance and a yearning for a better life. Haggard's rendition of the song beautifully captures the essence of this longing and the deep spiritual connection it represents.
The lyrics also touch on the transient nature of life and the belief that our time on earth is limited. The line, "I ain't got long to stay here," reminds us of the brevity of life and the need to make the most of our time. It serves as a reminder to focus on our relationship with Jesus and seek solace in Him.
Scripture verses that relate to the theme of the song include the following:
- John 14:2-3: "In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." This verse speaks of the promise of a heavenly home and the assurance that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us.
- Psalm 55:6: "Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest." This verse expresses the desire to escape from the burdens of life and find rest in the presence of God.
- Matthew 11:28-30: "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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." This verse reminds us that Jesus offers rest and solace to those who come to Him.
"Steal Away" is a timeless song that speaks to the longing within all of us for spiritual freedom and a deeper connection with God. It captures the essence of the human experience and reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus. Merle Haggard's rendition of the song is a testament to his incredible talent and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
In conclusion, "Steal Away" by Merle Haggard is a song that touches the soul and speaks to the universal human desire for spiritual freedom. It draws inspiration from the African American spiritual tradition and carries a powerful message of longing and hope. The lyrics and Haggard's emotive performance make this song a true masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners today.
