On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand
And cast a wishful eye
To Canaan’s fair and happy land
Where my possessions lie

All o’er those wide extended plains
Shines one eternal day
There God, the Son forever reigns
And scatters night away.

I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land
I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land

No chilling wind nor poisonous breath
Can reach that healthful shore
Where sickness, sorrow, pain and death
Are felt and feared no more

I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land
I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land

When shall I see that happy place
And be forever blessed
When shall I see my Father’s face
And in His bosom rest

I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land
I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the Promise Land

traditional words by Samuel Stennett (alt. by Christopher Miner) / music by Christopher Miner / © 1997 Christopher Miner Music.

Behind the Song:
The hope of heaven appears more real to us as we sing this song. In Grand Ole Opry fashion, the band used “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand” to close shows with Caedmon’s Call when they toured together. Written by English Baptist Samuel Stennett (1727-1795), Jars’ musical take takes a turn from the traditional American melody to feature Chris Miner’s music. It is celebratory in terms of where we are heading as people of faith, saying that the gospel is true in life and death, that when it doesn’t feel so here on earth, heaven truly is a real place. Adding an wonderful, gritty texture to the song are Blind Boys of Alabama. (Jars Of Clay)