Hosea (Come Back to Me)

This is a gentle song of repentance, sometimes recommended for Lent or reconciliation services.

It was written by American Roman Catholic and at-the-time Benedictine monk Gregory Norbet (b 1940), and originally released in 1972. Today it is copyright to the monks of Weston Priory via the The Benedictine Foundation of the State of Vermont.

The song became better known when it was recorded by John Michael Talbot: Today some sources (incorrectly) say that Talbot wrote it.

It is based on Hosea 14:1 "Return, O Israel, to the LORD your God, For you have stumbled because of your iniquity".

The song is set to an unnamed tune, also by Norbet. This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of F, the first few notes are C G A A_ C G A A_ D F F_ B B C C_ with accompanying chords F / Bb / F

Downloads

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Downloadable sheet music arranged for Voice and Piano/chords, 2 pages

Examples

The composer on piano, with concert audience participation:

Small group with band and on-screen lyrics:

John Michael Talbot with guitar/band - professional recording:

Small group with piano-led backing, professional recording:

Contemporary church choir with piano-led band, recorded live in a church service:

Solo singer, self-accompanied on guitar:

Small choir with piano and bells - apparently recorded live in a church service:

Instrumental - piano, with on-screen lyrics:

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:

1. Come back to me with all your heart. Don’t let fear keep us apart ...

Chorus:
Long have I waited for your coming home to me
and living deeply our new life.

2. The wilderness will lead you to the place where I will speak ...

3 You shall sleep secure with peace, faithfulness will be your joy ...