The Old Hymns

Mama sat by the window, Hands folded in her lap. She asked me, "Who are you, son?" Then smiled and took it back. I brought her the old blue Bible, The one with the torn red Spine. She touched my face like a stranger, Then called me by my name. And I sing, I sing, what she Sang to me. When her voice gets lost, I carry the melody. I sing, I sing, Through the trembling air. If she can't hold the words, I'll hold Them there. Sing the old hymns, Sing the old hymns. When she forgets, I remember them. Sing the old hymns, sing the Old hymns. Lord, keep her close When the years give in. She used to lead at the table With a spoon and a plate. Now some days the silver Morning Slips away from her faith. But she hums Through the shadows Like a lantern in the rain. And for one sweet holy Moment, She knows my face again. And I sing, I sing, What she sang to me. When her voice gets lost, I carry the Melody. I sing, I sing, through the Trembling air. If she can't hold the words, I'll hold Them there. Sing the old hymns, Sing the old hymns. When she forgets, I remember them. Sing the old hymns, Sing the old hymns. Lord, keep her close When the years give in. If memory leaves her, let mercy Stay. If her hands grow empty, Guide her safe. And when the dark comes and names fall Apart, Put that old song Deep in her heart. Sing the old hymns, Sing the old hymns. When she forgets, I remember them. Sing the old hymns, Sing the old hymns. Lord, keep her close When the years give in. Sing the old hymns, sing the old Hymns. Till heaven opens And she knows Again.