336. On the mountain top appearing
Thomas Kelly, 1769-1854
Based on Isa. 52:7: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings.” The hymn was written after the good news came from the island of Tahiti that the first little band of mission workers sent there by the London Missionary Society, was kindly received by the natives, their message heard and welcomed, and that there was every prospect for the success of the mission. Hearing the news, Rev. Thomas Kelly wrote this hymn, entitling it, “On the Good News from Tahiti.” The London Missionary Society met soon afterward for an enthusiastic gathering where this hymn was first sung.
For comments on Thomas Kelly see [Hymn 119].
MUSIC. ZION. This tune is also used with the hymn, “Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,” but it is better suited to the present hymn.
For comments on the composer, Thomas Hastings, see [Hymn 120].