This is Bob Hurd’s song, but I gather the verses that are usually sung are by Michael Downey. You can hear the original version here. The quality of the recording is not great but the noble simplicity of this version is wonderful. This is another song I have played so often, it is hard to know anymore if it has merit, but any song that acknowledges Jesus as stranger has my vote.
It can purchased for download at OCP.
It is a risk having the same tune for the verse and chorus, but it seems to work. The revised verses make it a much more generally applicable communion song but I quite like the first original verse, although we never sing it.
Refrain
In the breaking of the bread
We have known Him; we have been fed.
Jesus the stranger, Jesus the Lord,
Be our companion, be our hope.
Verse 1
Bread for the journey, strength for our years,
Manna of ages of struggle and tears.
Cup of salvation, fruit of the land,
Bless and receive now, the work of our hands.
Refrain
Verse 2
Bread of the promise, people of hope,
Wine of compassion, life for the world.
Gathered at table, joined as one body.
Sealed in the spirit, sent by the Word.
Refrain
Original verses:
Once I was helpless, sad and confused;
Darkness surrounded me, courage removed.
And then I saw him by my side.
Carry my burden, open my eyes.
There is no sorrow, pain or woe,
There is no suffering he did not know,
He did not waver, he did not bend.
He is the victor. he is my friend.
© Bob Hurd 1984, revised text Bob Hurd and Michael Downey 1987.