Goodbye to Professor Horner

My contracts professor passed this week. And, although more and more close to me are passing through the years, I feel this loss because Professor Ed Horner was so exceedingly smart, yet so kind and unassuming. Long after I had left school, I saw him at school, and around town, and he never failed to have a kind word, and he was always ready to talk - about anything I might bring up. He had the heart of a servant - to his students, to his church and to his profession that set an example for everyone. I am a better person because I knew Professor Horner. And, there are likely thousands like me.

If I told Professor Horner that this was one of my favorite Hymns, he would have just smiled at me, and said it was his favorite too (whether it was or not). So, I'm going to print it here, to affirm that Professor Horner's hard work is over.

When my life work is ended, and I cross the swelling tide,
When the bright and glorious morning I shall see;
I shall know my Redeemer when I reach the other side,
And His smile will be the first to welcome me.

I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand,
I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand.

Oh, the soul thrilling rapture when I view His blessèd face,
And the luster of His kindly beaming eye;
How my full heart will praise Him for the mercy, love and grace,
That prepare for me a mansion in the sky.

Oh, the dear ones in glory, how they beckon me to come,
And our parting at the river I recall;
To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home;
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.

Through the gates to the city in a robe of spotless white,
He will lead me where no tears will ever fall;
In the glad song of ages I shall mingle with delight;
But I long to meet my Savior first of all.

I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand,
I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand.

Words by Fanny J. Crosby