The Martyr’s Hymn
All human progress up to God
Has stained the stairs of time with blood;
For every gain for Christendom
Is bought by someone’s martyrdom.
For us he poured the crimson cup,
And bade us take and drink it up.
Himself he poured to set us free.
Help us, O Christ, to drink with Thee.
Ten thousand saints come thronging home,
From lion’s den and catacomb.
The fire and sword and beasts defied;
For Christ, their King, they gladly died.
With eye of faith we see today
That cross-led column wind its way
Up life’s repeated Calvary.
We rise, O Christ, to follow Thee!
Words: Dr. Francis Rose
“During World War II, eleven missionaries were martyred on the Island of Panay in the Philippines. One of these was Dr. Francis Rose, who had penned these poignant and challenging words in what is commonly called “The Martyr’s Hymn.”
The MacArthur New Testament Commentary 2 Timothy.
The Happy Wonderer ~ ellen b. 
…martyrs, I think of the Amish. Enjoy your day.
Such an appropriate hymn for the times we are in and for all those who are being martyred in Afghanistan
Vera, so many prayer concerns…
💜
Great words! Not familiar with this hymn.
This is a new hymn to me, but the words as all great old hymns are so powerful. Thank you for sharing.