What a Day That Will Be: Lyrics, Chords, and a Deeper Dive into the Hymn
"What a Day That Will Be" is a beloved gospel hymn known for its uplifting message of hope and anticipation for the joys of Heaven. While the exact origin of the song is debated, its enduring popularity speaks to its powerful message of faith and the promise of eternal life. This post will explore the lyrics, common chord progressions, and the theological richness embedded within this cherished hymn.
Lyrics: (These may vary slightly depending on the version)
(Verse 1) What a day that will be, When my Jesus I shall see, When I look upon His face, The one who saved me by His grace.
(Verse 2) What a day of untold joy, When I’m singing with the choir, In the heavenly home above, Singing praises to His love.
(Verse 3) What a day of perfect rest, No more sorrows in my breast, No more tears or pain to bear, Just sweet peace beyond compare.
(Verse 4) What a day to celebrate, With my Savior face-to-face, In His glorious presence bright, Filled with everlasting light.
Common Chord Progression:
The hymn typically uses a simple, yet effective, chord progression that is easy to play on guitar, piano, or other instruments. A common arrangement uses the following chords in the key of G:
- G - C - G - D (This is repeated throughout the verses)
Other variations may use slightly different voicings or add passing chords for harmonic interest. For example, some arrangements might incorporate an Em chord for added emotional depth. Experimentation is encouraged to find a voicing that resonates with you.
Exploring the Theological Significance:
The beauty of "What a Day That Will Be" lies not only in its melody but also in its profound theological message. The lyrics evoke a powerful sense of longing for:
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Personal Encounter with Christ: The repeated phrase "When my Jesus I shall see" emphasizes the deeply personal relationship with Christ at the heart of Christian faith. It speaks to the longing for a face-to-face encounter with the Savior.
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Joy and Celebration: The hymn depicts Heaven not as a somber or austere place but as a realm of overflowing joy, celebration, and ceaseless praise. This reflects the biblical portrayal of Heaven as a place of ultimate happiness and communion with God.
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Peace and Rest: The promise of "no more sorrows" and "sweet peace" speaks to the profound comfort and rest found in the presence of God, offering solace to those who are weary of life's struggles.
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Eternal Light and Glory: The references to "everlasting light" and "glorious presence" highlight the majesty and splendor of God's kingdom, emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of Heaven.
Beyond the Basics:
For those looking to delve deeper into the musical arrangement, consider exploring different keys and adding instrumental accompaniment. The simplicity of the melody allows for creative variations while maintaining the song's essential character.
"What a Day That Will Be" remains a powerful and inspiring hymn, transcending generations with its message of hope and faith. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, this hymn offers a simple yet profound way to express faith and anticipate the joys of eternity.
