Footprints of Jesus is a classic Christian hymn that calls believers to follow Christ’s path with faith and obedience, wherever it may lead. Centered on discipleship, service, and the promise of eternal rest, the song encourages unwavering trust in Jesus’ guidance through every step of life’s journey.
VERSE 1
Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling,
“Come, follow Me!”
And we see where Thy footprints falling,
Lead us to Thee.
CHORUS
Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow
We will follow the steps of Jesus where’er they go
VERSE 2
Though they lead o’er the cold dark mountains
Seeking His sheep,
or along by Siloam’s fountains,
helping the weak
VERSE 3
If they lead through the temple holy,
Preaching the Word,
or in homes of the poor and lowly,
serving the Lord
VERSE 4
Then at last, when on high He sees us,
Our journey done,
We will rest where the steps of Jesus
End at His throne
Story Behind the Song
Mary Bridges Canedy Slade, born in 1826 in Fall River, Massachusetts, was a schoolteacher and the wife of a Methodist minister. She also served as assistant editor of The New England Journal of Education.
In 1871, she penned the hymn “Footprints of Jesus,” which was first published in The Amaranth, a Sunday school collection compiled by Atticus G. Haygood and Rigdon M. McIntosh.[1]
The music for the hymn was composed by Asa Brooks Everett, a collaborator of Slade’s. Together, they created several hymns, including “Beyond This Land of Parting” and “Hark, the Gentle Voice.” Their partnership contributed significantly to 19th-century gospel music.[2]
Originally, “Footprints of Jesus” featured seven stanzas, though modern hymnals often include only four. The hymn emphasizes following Jesus’ example, reflecting Slade’s dedication to Christian discipleship and service.[3]
Slade’s work, including this hymn, has been featured in various hymnals over the years, underscoring its enduring impact on Christian worship.[4]
Follow the Steps of Christ
Footprints of Jesus is a song about discipleship, faithfulness, and the believer’s journey toward eternal rest with Christ. It reflects the biblical call to follow Jesus, walk in His ways, and trust His guidance through every season of life.
“Come, follow Me!” echoes Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 4:19, where He calls His disciples to leave everything and walk in obedience to Him. This call is not just about belief but about action—surrendering one’s life to follow His example. John 10:27 reinforces this truth: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Following Christ means trusting His leadership even when the path is uncertain.
Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow reminds believers that Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12). His footsteps illuminate the way, providing guidance and assurance. Psalm 119:105 affirms this, stating, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The Christian walk is not without challenges, but Jesus’ presence leads His people toward righteousness and truth.
Seeking His sheep reflects Christ’s mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). As the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), He actively pursues those who have strayed.
His footsteps lead to places of rescue and redemption, calling His followers to share in this mission. Believers are not only called to follow but to bring others into His fold, extending the same grace they have received.
We will rest where the steps of Jesus end at His throne speaks of the final reward for those who remain faithful. Hebrews 4:9-10 describes this eternal rest as ceasing from earthly toil and entering God’s presence. Revelation 7:17 paints a vivid picture of this promise.
“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water.” The journey of faith, though filled with trials, ends in victory and peace in the presence of God.
Following Jesus is a lifelong commitment that requires trust, perseverance, and surrender. His path may lead through difficulty, service, and sacrifice, but it ultimately leads to His glory.
True discipleship is not just about walking behind Him—it is about walking with Him, knowing that His steps always lead home.
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Bible Readings for Worship
- Bible Verses on Pursuing Our Dreams
- Jesus Our Living Hope
- Like a Tree Planted by Streams of Water (Psalm 1:1-6)
More Free Downloads
- Footsteps of Jesus (Hymn)
- Center (Bethel Music)
- One Day (VOUS Worship)
- A Hymn to God the Father (Hymn)
- The Father’s House (Cory Asbury)
Related themes you might want to include Footprints of Jesus in your list of songs for worship that centered around God The Father, Faithfulness of God, Glory of God, Grace of God
Footprints of Jesus lyrics and music by Mary Bridges Canedy Slade, (1871) Public Domain
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