What a Day That Will Be Lyrics and Their Powerful Meaning

There are some songs that bring comfort the moment you hear them—gentle reminders of peace, hope, and the promise of heaven. What a Day That Will Be is one of those timeless hymns, loved by generations for its message of joy and reunion with Jesus.

Whether you’ve sung it in church, heard it at a funeral, or simply found it during a quiet moment, its words leave a lasting impression. If you’ve been looking for what a day that will be lyrics to reflect, sing, or share, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the words that have touched so many hearts.

Full Lyrics to “What a Day That Will Be”

What a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see
And I look upon his face
The one who saved me by his grace
When he takes me by the hand
And leads me through the Promised Land
What a day, glorious day that will be (in the second person)

There’ll be no sorrows there
No more burdens to bear
No more sickness and no more pain
No more parting over there
But forever I will be
With the one who died for me
What a day, glorious day that will be

What a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see
When I look upon his face
The one who saved me by his grace (but when he)
When he takes me by the hand (takes me by the hand)
And leads me through the Promised Land
What a day, glorious day that will be

Oh, what a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see
When I look upon his face
The one who saved me by his grace (but when
When he takes me by the hand (he takes me by the hand)
And leads me through the Promised Land
What a day, glorious day that will be

Source: Musixmatch

The Meaning Behind the Lyrics

The lyrics of “What a Day That Will Be” are simple, yet they carry a deep emotional and spiritual weight. At its heart, the song paints a picture of heaven—a day without sorrow, pain, or struggle, where believers are finally reunited with Jesus. It’s a vision of perfect peace, and it offers powerful hope to anyone who is weary, grieving, or longing for something beyond this world.

One of the most moving lines in the song is “No more tears to dim the eye,” which speaks to the end of suffering and sadness. For many, this line is more than poetic—it’s personal. It reminds us that the heartaches of life are not permanent, and that joy is coming. Another key phrase, “When I look upon His face,” expresses the anticipation of finally meeting Christ face-to-face, no longer by faith, but in person. That image alone has brought comfort to countless people facing hardship, loss, or uncertainty.

The song also emphasizes the idea of eternal rest and reward. For those who have lived lives of faith, perseverance, and service, “What a Day That Will Be” is a musical reminder that their hope is not in vain. Heaven is not just a distant idea—it’s a real, promised place where love is fulfilled and peace is complete.

This hymn is often sung during times of mourning, but it isn’t just about death. It’s about the promise of life—everlasting life in the presence of God. It reassures believers that one day, all the trials and tears of this world will be replaced by joy unending. The lyrics express longing, but not despair. They reflect the deep Christian belief that after this life, there’s something better waiting.

When and Why People Sing This Song

“What a Day That Will Be” has become a beloved hymn across generations, not only because of its beautiful melody, but because of the deep comfort and assurance it offers. It’s a song that speaks to the soul, especially in moments when people are seeking peace, hope, or healing. That’s why it’s often chosen for some of life’s most emotional and meaningful occasions.

1. Funerals and Memorial Services

One of the most common times this hymn is sung is during funerals or memorial services. In those moments of grief, when words often fall short, “What a Day That Will Be” offers gentle reassurance.

It reminds families and friends that while they may be saying goodbye for now, there is a promised reunion waiting in eternity.The line “There’ll be no sorrow there” becomes especially powerful as loved ones reflect on the end of pain and the hope of peace beyond this life.

2. Church Services and Worship Gatherings

The hymn is also a favorite during regular church services—particularly on Sundays when sermons focus on heaven, eternal life, or the return of Christ.

Congregations often sing it with a mix of joy and reverence, expressing their shared anticipation for the day described in the lyrics. It’s especially moving in churches where generations gather together, each person carrying their own longing for that promised day.

3. Personal Devotion and Reflection

Outside of public services, many people turn to “What a Day That Will Be” during personal devotion time. Whether played softly during prayer, sung in solitude, or revisited during a quiet moment of reflection, the hymn offers encouragement when life feels overwhelming. Its words bring peace during difficult days and act as a reminder that pain and sorrow won’t last forever.

4. Times of Illness, Aging, or End-of-Life Care

This hymn also holds special meaning for those facing illness, aging, or the final stages of life. It becomes a source of comfort not only for the individual, but for their loved ones as well.

Hearing or singing the lyrics can provide a sense of calm, closure, and even joy as they think about what lies beyond this life.