Philip P. Bliss, one of the most prominent hymn writers of the 19th century, led the music for the evangelistic services of D.L. Moody and others. In December 1876 Bliss and his wife Lucy boarded a train from their home in Pennsylvania to Chicago, where they would participate in special meetings. Crossing a trestle in Ashtabula, Ohio during a fierce snowstorm, the train crashed into a 75-foot ravine and caught fire. Bliss escaped the blaze, but Lucy was trapped inside. The thirty-eight year old Bliss crawled back inside to give aid and comfort to his wife. Both died in the fire.
When Bliss' luggage trunk was opened, the words to one of his recently-written hymns were found, “I Will Sing of My Redeemer.” This was the first time others had seen the text. The words were set to music, and immediately became a Christian favorite.
I will sing of my Redeemer, and His wondrous love to me;
On the cruel cross He suffered, from the curse, to set me free.
(Chorus)
Sing, O sing of my Redeemer! With His blood He purchased me
On the cross He sealed my pardon- paid the debt, and made me free.
I will tell the wondrous story, how my lost estate to save,
In His boundless love and mercy, He the ransom freely gave.
I will praise my dear Redeemer, His triumphant power I’ll tell;
How the victory He giveth over sin, and death, and hell.
I will sing of my Redeemer, and His heavenly love to me;
He from death to life hath brought me, Son of God, with Him to be.