Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross (Tune: NEAR THE CROSS) (Congregational Worship Arrangement (Keys of D, E, F, G, A))-United Methodist Hymnal #301

Korean Hymnal #144 ("Jesus Bled and Died for Me") shares the exact same melody as "Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" (Korean Hymn #439). While the tune is identical, the lyrics are completely different.

The original key is F major. In case anyone needs a lower key, I have also prepared the sheet music in D, E, G, and A major.

I played the video in the key of F.

The 1st verse is played exactly as written in the sheet music, and the 2nd verse is played freely. Due to many requests, I also created a ballad version of the 2nd verse:

(Ballad Version Link: [https://www.mymusic5.com/chunsabach/384195](https://www.mymusic5.com/chunsabach/384195))

Piano Cover for Meditation & Prayer:

[https://youtu.be/rgjFQXd-dA8](https://youtu.be/rgjFQXd-dA8)

Interestingly, Hymn #144 holds a very special place in Korean church history. It is recorded as the very first hymn with lyrics written by a native Korean, In-sik Kim (1885–1962), set to W. Howard Doane's beloved tune.

In-sik Kim also beautifully re-translated many awkwardly translated missionary hymns into natural Korean. Because this early translation work was done anonymously, we don't even know exactly which of our beloved hymns today were translated by him. Yet, the fruit of his anonymous labor has been blossoming in the Korean church for over a century.

Whether we are singing the original lyrics of "Near the Cross" or the Korean lyrics of Hymn #144, the confession that we enjoy eternal rest through Jesus' cross and His suffering always brings tears to my eyes.

This arrangement is specifically designed for congregational worship.

Therefore, it heavily focuses on the melody, and I intentionally avoided using excessive jazz chords that might distract from the worship experience or the lyrics.

Please note that unlike standard hymnals, this is not written in 4-part harmony, so it cannot be used to accompany a choir.

It is best suited for church services accompanied by a single piano, or for playing softly during silent prayer and meditation before the service begins.

This arrangement is an attempt to serve church services that do not have a full worship band or choir. I hope this demonstrates that a single piano can produce rich musical expression, and I pray that you experience deeper emotion and grace through it.

Although I check the sheet music dozens of times, I am only human, so there might be occasional errors. If you spot anything, please let me know anytime, and I will fix it immediately! ^^

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