Lenten Devotional 2018 - Methodist Church · throughout this Lenten season. This is a compilation of some of our church family’s favorite songs of faith. The collection is diverse

Lenten Devotional 2018

Our Favorite HymnsJohn Wesley United Methodist Church

Tallahassee, Florida

Introduction

It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O most High,to proclaim your love in the morning

and your faithfulness at night… -- Psalm 92: 1-2

Whether your devotional time is in the morning, at noon, or at night, we hope this booklet will serve you well throughout this Lenten season. This is a compilation of some of our church family’s favorite songs of faith. The collection is diverse in genre, familiarity, and age. You will find well-known and lesser- known hymns—some centuries old—choral anthems, spirituals, and gospel songs, along with praise and worship songs more recently written. The contributor for each entry has written a personal reflection related to the song’s meaning, and some writers have included a bit of information about the song’s history, which you may find interesting. Since February is designated as Black History Month, and March as Women’s History Month, we hope you will take special note of African-American and women songwriters.

A couple of songs were popular enough to be submitted by more than one person. In that case, we combined the reflections into a single entry. Each entry contains the song’s lyrics, a scripture reference, and a prayer focus. On many pages, you will also see a web address to an online video/audio performance of the song. Singing along or listening may be a wonderful way to top off your daily devotional experience. From inception to completion, this book was more of a sprint than a marathon. It was completed in less than two weeks, so we hope you will forgive our errors when you find them, and express thanks to the contributors when you next see them. If you had wanted to contribute, but the time frame was too short, do not be dismayed—we’llcatch you next time!

Contributors

Olivia AhyoungDebi Brigman

Martha CapeloutoCindy Cosper

Jim CosperPat Davis

Barbara GeorgeTony Ichite

Kathy Fearon

Carolyn GlynnAngelyn HiraiChip Jordan

Eric Egwu KaluGene Kelley

Leslie KittermanPat Lanfear

Debbie Rivenburg

Ann ToddAngie Williams

Barbara Williams

Cover photo: Anton Zotov

Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days Ash Wednesday, February 14

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fvk5pZBZX4

Author: Claudia F. Hernaman, 1873

Scripture: Luke 4: 1-14

You may have been expecting this hymn, and it is pretty wonderful. Who could write lyrics like this today? They

clearly, concisely, and eloquently describe what Lent is all about—the forty days Jesus spent fasting and praying in

the desert before beginning his ministry. Are you fasting in some way? If so, remember to take a break on Sunday.

Sundays are considered “mini Easters” when we anticipate the resurrection. Welcome to the season!

About the songwriter: “Claudia Hernaman (1838-1898) was born in Surrey, England, and died in Brussels, Belgium.

She was the daughter of an Anglican minister, and she married a minister who also served as a school inspector.

Like so many other women hymn writers of the nineteenth century, she was devoted to the religious education of

children. Toward this end, she wrote 150 hymns in several collections, some original and some translated from

Latin.”

Hawn, Michael C., “History of Hymns: Lord, Who Throughout these Forty Days” Discipleship Ministries, The United

Methodist Church. https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-lord-who-throughout-these-

forty-days

Angie Williams

Lord, who throughout these forty days

for us did fast and pray,

teach us with you to mourn our sins

and close by you to stay.

As you with Satan did contend,

and did the victory win,

O give us strength in you to fight,

in you to conquer sin.

As you did hunger and did thirst,so teach us, gracious Lord,

to die to self, and so to live by your most holy Word.

And through these days of penitence,

and through your Passiontide,

forevermore, in life and death,

O Lord, with us a bide.

Abide with us, that through this life

of doubts and hope and pain,

an Easter of unending joy

we may at last attain!

Prayer Focus: For the self-discipline needed to follow through with the fasting or change of habits we resolved to

enact during this season of Lent. Pray that these measures draw us into a closer relationship with Jesus.

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-lord-who-throughout-these-forty-days

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-lord-who-throughout-these-forty-days

Beautiful Things Thursday, February 15

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ4yNYY1hHM

Author: Michael Gungor, 2010

Scripture: Isaiah:61:3

This hauntingly beautiful, contemporary Christian song was nominated for a 2011 Grammy Award in the Best

Gospel Song category. It struck a chord with many people for many reasons, but especially those struggling with

addiction. As someone whose family has been touched by addiction, I know firsthand the myriad of painful

emotions one experiences when a loved one is lost:

Confusion…disappointment…denial…anger…frustration…guilt…shame…helplessness…fear.

Without faith, these can become near constant companions testing the bounds of love. But, there is hope in

Jesus. Praise God, there is Jesus! With His help, I have also experienced the joy of the loved one’s deliverance!

This song, with its promise of restoration, is an anthem of that hope.

Angie Williams

All this pain

I wonder if I'll ever find my way

I wonder if my life could really change, at all

All this earth

Could all that is lost ever be found?

Could a garden come out from this ground, at all?

You make beautiful things

You make beautiful things out of the dust


You make beautiful things out of us

All around,

Hope is springing up from this old ground

Out of chaos life is being found, in you





Oh, you make beautiful things




You make me new,

You are making me new

You make me new,

You are making me new

Prayer Focus: Those coping with addiction, and the family and friends who love them.

Lift Every Voice and Sing Friday, February 16

Authors: J. Rosamond Johnson and James Johnson, 1921Scripture: Psalm 100: 1-5

Back in 1976, when I was in high school in Jacksonville, I was invited to participate in a new event–Black History Month. The event was held at a junior high school where I had never been before– James Weldon Johnson–so I had to get out maps to find my way there. Being white, I had had very little education about Black History. After the history presentations (I’m still a history buff), they sang a song written by the man this school was named after, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” The words were projected on the screen, so I could recognize the meaning of the words and the plight of black people in America. But when we all sang the song (it took me a verse to get a hang of the notes), it uplifted all of us! I was happy to hear in later years that the United Methodist Church included this song in the hymnal. All of us can hear in the song the times we have struggled, both personally andas a church–I hope we can also hear the hope!

Chip Jordan

Lift every voice and sing, till earth and Heaven ring,Ring with the harmonies of liberty; Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies,Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod,Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet,Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered;Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at lastWhere the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,Thou Who hast brought us thus far on the way;Thou Who hast by Thy might, led us into the light,Keep us forever in the path, we pray.Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee.Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee.Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand,True to our God, true to our native land.

Prayer Focus: Dear Lord, help us to continually praise you for all the gifts you have bestowed on us. Help us to look to you when times are rough and we need Your help. Amen.

Let Us Break Bread Together Saturday, February 17

Author: African American Spiritual

Scripture: Luke 22:19

I like the practice Pastor Sanders has introduced of taking Holy Communion every Sunday during Lent. I’ve heard

that John Wesley preached that we should take communion as often as possible, considering it is as important a

part of discipleship as daily prayer. (By the way, his sermon on the subject, “Sermon 101: The Duty of Constant

Communion,” is available on the UMC Global Missions website.)

So, soon we will be partaking of this sacrament with every service of worship. We will do so in different ways—

by intinction most Sundays, but with cups and wafers at least once. Our posture will vary between standing,

kneeling at the altar rail, and sitting in the pews. We will also vary the type of bread used, and even offer a

chalice of wine alongside the grape juice at the Palm Sunday service. But, there is one constant you can probably

rely on—this song will be played. It is a beautiful song, born long ago as an African American spiritual, and no

one plays it like Martha Capelouto. The simple words and lovely melody soak right through to your soul just like

the bread soaking up the juice. I look forward to it.

Angie Williams

Let us break bread together on our knees, (on our knees)

Let us break bread together on our knees. (on our knees)

When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,

O Lord, have mercy on me.

Let us drink wine together on our knees, (on our knees)

Let us drink wine together on our knees. (on our knees)



Let us praise God together on our knees, (on our knees)

Let us praise God together on our knees. (on our knees)



Prayer Focus: Appreciation for the sacraments of our faith.

On Eagles Wings Sunday, February 18

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sia__sKdHGw

Songwriter: Michael Joncas, 1979

Scripture: Psalm 91; Isaiah 40:31

The songwriter, Father Michael Joncas, wrote this song to console a good friend who had lost his father to a

sudden heart attack. Over the years, it has been recorded by many famous singers (but Debi Brigman sings it as

beautifully as anyone around). The song’s imagery and rising and fall melody have the ability to provide comfort

in moments of grief, making it a very popular funeral song. I confess, I can hardly listen to it without shedding a

tear or two. Many people in our church family have lost loved ones recently. This song is for you.

Angie Williams

You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord,

Who abide in His shadow for life,

Say to the Lord, "My Refuge,

My Rock in Whom I trust."

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,

Bear you on the breath of dawn,

Make you to shine like the sun,

And hold you in the palm of His Hand.

The snare of the fowler will never capture you,

And famine will bring you no fear;

Under His Wings your refuge,

His faithfulness your shield.





You need not fear the terror of the night,

Nor the arrow that flies by day,

Though thousands fall about you,

Near you it shall not come.





For to His angels He's given a command,

To guard you in all of your ways,

Upon their hands they will bear you up,

Lest you dash your foot against a stone.






Prayer Focus: Those who have lost loved ones.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sia__sKdHGw

I’ll Fly Away Monday, February 19

Author: Albert E Brumley, 1929

Scripture: I Thessalonians 4:17

I am a birder (birdwatcher), and my favorite bird is the kingfisher (I have a tattoo of a kingfisher). They are very

hard to take pictures of since they fly and dive very fast. I do, however, have a good collection of kingfisher art and

a few photos. So, I have often fantasized about flying like a bird. My end-of-life thought would be to fly into the

sunset. This old gospel hymn has that feel to it in a very joyful way. “I’ll fly away, Oh Glory!”

Jim Cosper

Some glad morning when this life is o'er,

I'll fly away;

To a home on God's celestial shore,

I'll fly away (I'll fly away).

Chorus

I'll fly away, Oh Glory

I'll fly away; (in the morning)

When I die, Hallelujah, by and by,

I'll fly away (I'll fly away).

When the shadows of this life have gone,

I'll fly away;

Like a bird from prison bars has flown,

I'll fly away (I'll fly away)

Just a few more weary days and then,

I'll fly away;

To a land where joy shall never end,

I'll fly away (I'll fly away)

Prayer Focus: To lay down our burdens and fly free as a bird.

Amazing Love, You Are My King Tuesday, February 20

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPeC6Pri_pM

Composer: Billy James Foote, 2003

Scripture: Colossians 3:17

There are so many hymns that touch my heart and soul this Lenten time of the year that picking just one was a

challenge, but God put this song in mind “Amazing Love - You Are My King”.

I’m forgiven because you were forsaken.

I’m accepted because you were condemned.

I’m alive and well.

Your spirit is within me.

Because you died and rose again.

With the chorus:

Amazing love how can it be.

That you my King would die for me.

Amazing love I know it’s true.

It is my joy to honor you in all that I do.

My prayer is for each of us take these words to heart and honor our Lord and Savior by demonstrating his love

and his joy to and for others each and every day.

Leslie Kitterman

I'm forgiven because You were forsaken

I'm accepted, You were condemned

I'm alive and well, Your spirit is within me

Because, You died and rose again

Amazing love, how can it be

That You, my King, would die for me

Amazing love, I know it's true

And it's my joy to honor You

In all I do, I honor You

I'm forgiven because You were forsaken, Lord

I'm accepted, You were condemned, yeah

I'm alive and well, Your spirit is within me

Because, You died and You rose again, thank You,

Jesus


You, my King, would die for me




You are my King

You are my King

Jesus, You are my King

You are my King


That You, my King, would die for me




You, my King, would die for me




You are my King

Amazing love

Prayer Focus: How can I demonstrate Christ’s love and his joy to and for others each and every day?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPeC6Pri_pM

Precious Lord, Take My Hand Wednesday, February 21

Author: Thomas Andrew Dorsey, 1932

Scripture: Psalm 37:24

I love to hear Martha Capelouto play this song in her magnificently unique, soulful style. She shared the story of

its composer, and it’s a good one. Thomas Dorsey was born into a large family in a small Georgia town. His father

was a Baptist preacher and his mother was a piano teacher. He grew up, studied music, and became a blues

musician of some reputation around Chicago. In 1928, he was converted and became active at Pilgrim Baptist

Church in Chicago where he went on to serve as choir director for over 40 years. A prolific songwriter, he

combined African America church hymns with blues and jazz to create a unique sound known as gospel music. He

is known as the “Father of Black Gospel Music.” In his own words, this is the story of “Precious Lord” came to be.

"Back in 1932 I was 32 years old and a fairly new husband. My wife, Nettie and I were living in a little apartment on

Chicago’s Southside. One hot August afternoon I had to go to St. Louis, where I was to be the featured soloist at a large

revival meeting. I didn’t want to go. Nettie was in the last month of pregnancy with our first child. But a lot of people were

expecting me in St. Louis. . . .

". . . In the steaming St. Louis heat, the crowd called on me to sing again and again. When I finally sat down, a messenger

boy ran up with a Western Union telegram. I ripped open the envelope. Pasted on the yellow sheet were the words: YOUR

WIFE JUST DIED. . . .

"When I got back, I learned that Nettie had given birth to a boy. I swung between grief and joy. Yet that night, the baby

died. I buried Nettie and our little boy together, in the same casket. Then I fell apart. For days I closeted myself. I felt that

God had done me an injustice. I didn’t want to serve Him an more or write gospel songs. I just wanted to go back to that

jazz world I once knew so well. . .

"But still I was lost in grief. Everyone was kind to me, especially a friend, Professor Frye, who seemed to know what I

needed. On the following Saturday evening he took me up to Malone’s Poro College, a neighborhood music school. It was

quiet; the late evening sun crept through the curtained windows. I sat down at the piano, and my hands began to browse

over the keys.”

Angie Williams

Precious Lord, take my hand,Lead me on, let me stand,I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.Through the storm, Through the night,Lead me on to the lightTake my hand precious Lord, lead me home.

When my way grows drear, precious Lord linger nearWhen my light is almost gone

Hear my cry, hear my callHold my hand lest I fallTake my hand precious Lord, lead me home.

When the darkness appears and the night draws nearAnd the day is past and goneAt the river I standGuide my feet, hold my handTake my hand precious Lord, lead me home.

Prayer Focus: How can your faith answer someone else’s need today?

How Great Thou Art Thursday, February 22

Author: Stuart K. Hine, 1953


As a teenager, I heard George Beverly Shay sing this song during a Billy Graham revival in Atlanta, GA. I was

singing in the choir at the time and remember how deeply the song touched me. Each time I hear it, even after

all these years, God's greatness continues to be with me. When I hear the words of the song: "the birds sing

sweetly in the trees," or "He bled and died to take away my sin," or "then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee,"

that is when my heart sings in gratitude for how great God is. When I recall the disappointments, mistakes,

losses, and sorrows I have experienced, I remember His Greatness that shows in the joys of accomplishments,

successes, gifts of family and friends, and His everlasting love and acceptance. Why is He always there for

us? Because He is Great and loves us all.

Pat Lanfear

Springtime on the Wakulla River, with cool breezes and new green leaves bursting forth from all the trees, can be

absolutely spectacular! I cannot count the number of times I have stood on my dock, awestruck by the beauty,

and broken into this song. Sometimes, my singing has been quiet and reverent. At other times (with no boaters

in view), I have sung full voice, feeling the awesome power of this praise anthem. I will never forget the rich

baritone delivery of George Beverly Shea, with a backup choir of thousands, at the televised Billy Graham

crusades of my youth, or the bluegrass version we sang here once at John Wesley. I have heard this is one of the

most loved hymns in America. It is definitely one of mine!

Angie Williams

O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,

Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;

I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,

Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Refrain:

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,

How great Thou art, How great Thou art.

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,

How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

When through the woods, and forest glades I

wander,

And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.

When I look down, from lofty mountain

grandeur

And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.

And when I think, that God, His Son not

sparing;

Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;

That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,

He bled and died to take away my sin.

When Christ shall come, with shout of

acclamation,

And take me home, what joy shall fill my

heart.

Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,

And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou

art!"

Prayer Focus: Being good stewards of God’s creation.

Turn! Turn! Turn! Friday, February 23

Listen: https://youtu.be/W4ga_M5Zdn4

Songwriters: Peter Seeger, The Byrds, 1965

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

This is a pop song from the 1960s that you’ve probably never sung in church, and yet its words are taken almost

entirely from scripture. Enjoy this “departure” today!

If you were to examine your current situation or season in life right now, what would you say? Think about that

for a quick moment. Would you say that you’re in a grinding season, dry season, getting married season, waiting

for your godly mate season, raising small kids or teens season, empty nesting season, spiritual warfare season,

tests and trials at nearly every turn season, growing closer to God season? The list could go on and on, right?

In a natural sense, we know that seasons change: winter, spring, summer, and fall. And although I’m not about

to get poetic on you, I simply want you to truly recognize that just as the natural seasons change, the same

happens as it relates to seasons in our lives. Yet, the key to success in getting THROUGH any of them well is first

recognizing where you are.

The Bible tells us in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season.” It also tells us in Ecclesiastes 3:11, “Yet

God has made everything beautiful for its own time.” Ultimately God is in control of all of the seasons, whether

natural or within life. So, it’s important for us to recognize that from the start. For me, this song commands us to

“turn,” that’s a verb and it means move! So, look, seek, and more than anything, pray because you are part of

God’s big picture!

Whichever season you’re currently in, try to understand that He’s making everything beautiful for its time! We just need to be diligent and look for Him in every season of our lives!

Debi Brigman

Turn! Turn! Turn!To everything (turn, turn, turn)There is a season (turn, turn, turn)And a time to every purpose, under heavenA time to be born, a time to dieA time to plant, a time to reapA time to kill, a time to healA time to laugh, a time to weepTo everything (turn, turn, turn)There is a season (turn, turn, turn)And a time to every purpose, under heavenA time to build up, a time to break downA time to dance, a time to mournA time to cast away stones, a time to gather stones together

To everything (turn, turn, turn)There is a season (turn, turn, turn)And a time to every purpose, under heavenA time of love, a time of hateA time of war, a time of peaceA time you may embrace, a time to refrain from embracingTo everything (turn, turn, turn)There is a season (turn, turn, turn)And a time to every purpose, under heavenA time to gain, a time to loseA time to rend, a time to sewA time for love, a time for hateA time for peace, I swear it's not too late

Prayer Focus: Help me find contentment in this season of life. I will stay close to You in scripture, service, and

prayer, seeking Your will for my life.

https://youtu.be/W4ga_M5Zdn4

Down to the River to Pray Saturday, February 24

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSif77IVQdY

Author: Traditional

Scripture:

This catchy tune has rich history—as an African American spiritual, an Appalachian mountain song, and a Christian

folk hymn. This song to me is all about invitation: the harmonies are inviting; the words are inviting. It is so simple, yet

it encompasses anyone and everyone. Whoever we are, we find ourselves in this song. As Christians, we invite one

another to go to the source of life, the giver of life, to pray. And since we're all sinners, we are all in need of prayer.

This is a song that the praise band has sung several times, and practicing with the praise band is where I first came to

love singing the harmonies in it. It touches your soul—you can just feel that call deep within you drawing you to come

and pray with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Debbie Rivenburg

As I went down in the river to pray

Studying about that good old way

And who shall wear the starry crown

Good Lord, show me the way!

O sisters let's go down

Let's go down, come on down

O sisters let's go down

Down in the river to pray



And who shall wear the robe and crown


O brothers let's go down


Come on brothers let's go down






O fathers let's go down


O fathers let's go down






O mothers let's go down

Let's go down, don't you want to go down

Come on mothers let's go down






O sinners let's go down


O sinners let's go down






Prayer Focus: The sisters, brothers, mothers and fathers that make up our church community.

Come, Come Ye Saints Sunday, February 25

https://youtu.be/F5vWgEsmVms

Author: William Clayton, 1814–1879; Music: English folk song

Scripture: John 17: 1-4

Glory to God!

The night before he was crucified, Jesus reported to his Father, "I have brought you glory on earth by completing

the work you gave me to do." Will you be able to say that at the end of your life? It’s what you were created to

do and should be your life’s goal. Jesus said, "More than anything else, put God's work FIRST and do what he

wants. Then the other things will be yours as well." The secret of being blessed by God is to participate in his

agenda for the world—to be a part of what he is accomplishing on earth. Instead of praying "God bless what I

want to do," pray "God help me to do what you’re blessing!" Fulfilling the mission you were made for will require

you to abandon your agenda and to adjust to God’s agenda. David prayed, "Turn me away from wanting any

other plan than yours." Your mission begins the moment you say "yes" to God in obedience, faith, and love. And

remember, “All Is Well” Cha-Ching!

Debi Brigman

Come, come, ye Saints, no toil nor labor fear;But with joy wend your way.Though hard to you this journey may appear,Grace shall be as your day.’Tis better far for us to striveOur useless cares from us to drive;Do this, and joy your hearts will swell—All is well! All is well!

Why should we mourn or think our lot is hard?’Tis not so; all is right.Why should we think to earn a great rewardIf we now shun the fight?Gird up your loins; fresh courage take.Our God will never us forsake;And soon we’ll have this tale to tell—All is well! All is well!

We'll find the place which God for us prepared,In His house full of light,Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid;There the saints will shine bright.We'll make the air with music ring,Shout praises to our God and King;Above the rest these words we’ll tell,All is well! All is well!

And should we die before our journey’s through,Happy day! All is well!We then are free from toil and sorrow, too;With the just we shall dwell!But if our lives are spared againTo see the Saints their rest obtain,Oh, how we’ll make this chorus swell—All is well! All is well!

Prayer Focus: “Father, I know you are going to doing some amazing things in the world today, and I’d like the privilege of being included in some of them."

https://youtu.be/F5vWgEsmVms

There Is a Balm in Gilead Monday, February 26

Listen at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0wslMBQxE8

Author: African American Spiritual

Scripture: Luke 17:11-19 and Jeremiah 8:22

Healing. I seem to pray for healing for someone, or many people, every day. Healing for those suffering from

disease…whether it be physical or mental. Healing for those affected by conflict. Healing for those who have

suffered great loss. Healing for myself when I’m down and out…when joy feels elusive. Our hope is in our faith in

Jesus Christ. Jesus is the true balm in Gilead. Let the words of this beautiful song roll over you and be your prayer

today.

Angie Williams

There is a balm in Gilead

To make the wounded whole


To heal the sin-sick soul

Sometimes I feel discouraged

And leave my fear away

In prayers the Holy Spirit

Revives my soul again




To heal the sin-sick soul

If you can't pray like Peter

If you can't be like Paul

Go home and tell your neighbor

He died to save us all




To heal the wounded soul

Prayer Focus: For all who need to feel the healing power of Jesus today.

When in Our Music God Is Glorified Tuesday, February 27

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QKQ1ZNmi7k

Words: Fred Pratt Green, 1971 Lyrics: Charles Villiers Stanford, 1904

Scripture: Mark 14:26

And adoration leaves no room for pride,It is as though the whole creation cried “Alleluia”. Verse 1

“Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise. The gift of language combined with the gift of song

was given to man that he should proclaim the Word of God through Music.”

(Quote attributed to Martin Luther)

The current United Methodist Hymnal is filled with a diversity of hymns, canticles, psalms, service music, and

other forms of worship. Among the hymns are many gems, some of which are not often sung. One such hymn is

the title of this article. I’m a musician, and this hymn of Praise and Glory is a favorite of mine; I consider it a sort of

Musician’s hymn/anthem.

This hymn is all about honoring God through music in our worship experience. Indeed, what would Liturgy and

worship be without music? I am struck by the profound text that reflects verses 14 to 26 of the gospel of Mark.

Written in 1971 by retired British Methodist minister Fred Green, the text is married to a majestic tune written in

1904 by Sir Charles Villiers Stanford, himself an outstanding British composer and organist.

This glorious five-verse hymn addresses the role of the individual, the group, and the church in verses 1 through 3.

How often, making music, we have found a new dimension in the world of sound, reads Verse 2, leading us to a

more profound Alleluia. Ask any choir member about that feeling. Verse 3 reminds us of the role of the church

throughout the world and the ages in teaching us the lessons of faith and love. Now, as we approach the Lenten

season, the words of verse 4 become even more meaningful, ending with the wonderful invitation to sing for

whom HE won the fight against evil.

Musically, I love this hymn because of its unusual meter and harmony, which does not come to a closing cadence

until the final verse:

“Let every instrument be tuned for praise, let all rejoice who have a voice to raise.”

Indeed, the human voice is the best instrument for praising God.

When the harmony of the final cadence is played there is a feeling of Exultation, which can only be satisfied with a

resounding AMEN!

And may God give us faith to sing always, “Alleluia.”

May our collective voices reach the heavens this Easter season when we sing ALLELUIA!

Olivia Ahyoung

When in our music God is glorified,

and adoration leaves no room for pride,

it is as though the whole creation cried,

Alleluia!

How often, making music, we have found

a new dimension in the world of sound,

as worship moved us to a more profound

Alleluia!

So has the church, in liturgy and song,

in faith and love, through centuries of wrong,

borne witness to the truth in every tongue:

Alleluia!

And did not Jesus sing a Psalm that night

when utmost evil strove against the Light?

Then let us sing, for whom he won the fight:

Alleluia!

Let every instrument be tuned for praise!

Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise!

And may God give us faith to sing always:

Alleluia!

Prayer Focus: “May God give us faith to sing always.”

I'll Meet You in the Morning Wednesday, February 28

Listen at: https://youtube/EW3jJpac1Sk

Author: Albert Brumley (also wrote I’ll Fly Away and other favorite old hymns)

Scripture: John 16:22

The first time I heard this song, the occasion was not necessarily a happy one. Our assistant pastor, Bud Harkey, had recently passed away and his wife Sarah requested that the choir sing it at his memorial service. In the choir room, director Angelyn brought out a stack of very old hymnals that she had received from her mother. The hymnals were small, easily fit in your hand, and upon opening them we saw “shape note” songs—instead of the regular music notes, the notes were represented with squares, diamonds, and different types of triangles.

As we worked to decipher these old notes, learn the lyrics, melodies and harmonies, my sadness at the loss of Pastor Bud turned to hope and joy. It was as if he were singing this song to his beloved, Sarah, and all those who loved and missed him. The song describes heaven, love, and the renewing of friendships with those long separated. There will be no more death, no disappointments, just joy and happiness for eternity. Wow, how hopeful is that?

Years later, our church was thrilled to host the Africa University Choir, a very talented and lively group of young people from different African countries, and one of their songs was “I’ll Meet You in the Morning.” However, they “performed” the song with joy, movement, gestures, and walking out among the congregation to interact during the song. Later, the John Wesley choir wanted to sing the song to our congregation and incorporate what we saw from the Africa University Choir. Practicing it was much fun: figuring out when we would sit down, raise our hands to the sky, and move around to greet one another during the appropriate parts of the song.

Why is this song one of my favorites? It is full of joy. It describes God’s promises. I have seen it span generations and continents with a message of hope. And, I can feel the joy of the Lord when I sing it!

Debbie Rivenburg

I will meet you in the morning on the bright riverside, When all sorrows have drifted away. I'll be standing at the portal with the gates open wide At the close of life's long, dreary day.

Chorus:I'll meet you in the morning with a "How do you do?" And we'll sit down by the river, and with rapture, old acquaintance renew. You'll know me in the morning by the smile that I wear. When I meet you in the morning in that city that is built foursquare.

I will meet you in the morning in the sweet by and by, And exchange the old cross for a crown. There will be no disappointments and no body shall die In that land where life's sun goeth down.

I will meet you in the morning at the end of the way On the streets of that city of gold, Where we all can be together and be happy for aye As the years of eternity roll.

Prayer Focus: Thanksgiving for the Harkeys and others who have worshipped at John Wesley over the years, our present congregation, and those who will come in the future.

https://youtube/EW3jJpac1Sk

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine Thursday, March 1

Listen to an updated version of this classic at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4_qte-Qgwk

Author: Fanny Crosby, 1873

Scripture: I John 3:19-24

“Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine!” has been one of my favorite hymns since I read about the lyricist Fanny J

Crosby (1820-1915), who wrote it. I’m amazed that someone who was blind so long ago could be the author of

over 8000 gospel songs, such as “Safe in the Arms of Jesus,” “To God Be the Glory,” and “Softly and Tenderly.”

After losing her eyesight to infection at an early age, she was gifted with an amazing memory and could recite

most of the Bible. Always humble, she avoided public acclaim and lived to the ripe old age of 95.

Barbara Williams, MD

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God,

born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.

Refrain:

This is my story, this is my song,

praising my Savior all the day long;

this is my story, this is my song,

praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight,

visions of rapture now burst on my sight;

angels descending bring from above

echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

(Refrain)

Perfect submission, all is at rest;

I in my Savior am happy and blest,

watching and waiting, looking above,

filled with his goodness, lost in his love.

(Refrain)

Prayer Focus: Thank you, Lord, for people like Fanny Crosby, who used her strengths to glorify you. I pray that I

may do the same.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4_qte-Qgwk

Beauty for Brokenness World Day of Prayer Friday, March 2Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKAXTinhhq4&t=77s

Author: Graham Kendrick, 1993

Scripture: Psalms 107:1-43

Question: Why have we never heard of or sung this hymn? Answer: We don’t worship in a Methodist church in Australia or the United Kingdom, where we probably would. Graham Kendrick is an accomplished and prolific British songwriter who has composed many contemporary worship songs. We have sung his “Shine, Jesus Shine” and “Amazing Love” here at John Wesley. The inspiration for this song (also called “God of the Poor”) was a visit to India in 1992, where the disturbing poverty Kendrick witnessed was in stark contrast to western affluence. In this Lenten season, may we be intentional in sharing our blessings with those in need. This is a lovely prayer witha sweet melody. I think it will speak to your heart.

Angie Williams

Beauty for brokenness

Hope for despair

Lord, in the suffering

This is our prayer

Bread for the children

Justice, joy, peace

Sunrise to sunset

Your kingdom increase!

Refrain: God of the poor

Friend of the weak

Give us compassion we pray

Melt our cold hearts

Let tears fall like rain

Come, change our love

From a spark to a flame

Shelter for fragile lives

Cures for their ills

Work for the craftsman

Trade for their skills

Land for the dispossessed

Rights for the weak

Voices to plead the cause

Of those who can't speak

Refuge from cruel wars

Havens from fear

Cities for sanctuary

Freedoms to share

Peace to the killing-fields

Scorched earth to green

Christ for the bitterness

His cross for the pain

Rest for the ravaged earth

Oceans and streams

Plundered and poisoned

Our future, our dreams

Lord, end our madness

Carelessness, greed

Make us content with

The things that we need

Lighten our darkness

Breathe on this flame

Until your justice

Burns brightly again

Until the nations

Learn of your ways

Seek your salvation

And bring you their praise.

Prayer Focus: Recite the words of this hymn as your prayer today.

This Is My Word Saturday, March 3

Watch/Listen at: https://youtu.be/fgAqfXJMnh0

Words and Music: Pepper Choplin, 1999 Scripture: Isaiah 55:10-12

God’s Word is unlike any other word. It is alive. Jesus said, “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and

are life.” (John 6:63). When God speaks, things change. Everything around you—all of creation—exists because

“God said it.” He spoke it all into existence.

God’s Word generates life, creates faith, produces change, frightens the Devil, causes miracles, heals hurts, builds

character, transforms circumstances, imparts joy, overcomes adversity, defeats temptation, infuses hope,

releases power, cleanses our minds, brings things into being, and guarantees our future forever! Mamma Mia!

We cannot live without the Word of God! Never take it for granted. You should consider it as essential to your life

as FOOD.

Job said, “I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread” (Job 23:12 ). God’s Word is the

spiritual nourishment you must have to fulfill your purpose. “Mangia!”

Debi Brigman

As the snow falls from heaven,As it comes in swirling showers from the sky,So is my Word.As the rains bring the water to the earth that is thirsty and dry,So is my Word.And the Word of my mouth, it shall not return empty:It will bless the earth wherever it is heard.This is my Word.As the rain brings renewalAnd the tender buds begin to come alive,So is my Word.Giving seed to the sower,And the bread to the hungry ’til they thrive,So is my Word.And the Word of my mouth, it shall not return empty;It will bless the earth wherever it is heard.This is my Word.O Lord, when I am weary,When I feel the days I’m living are in vain,My God, help me be faithful to the Word You have given to proclaim.Proclaim the Word, and you will go out in joy,And be led forth in peace,And the hills will break before you into song.So be faithful, brave and true,For I will go before you,And when your earthly journey here is done.I’ll say well done, well done!As the snow falls from heaven,And the rain comes in showers from the sky,This is my Word.

Prayer Focus: Father, thank you for the truth, wisdom, and certainty of your Word.

https://youtu.be/fgAqfXJMnh0

The Day Thou Gavest Lord, Is Ended - #690 UMH Sunday, March 4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pigh8VHr-ZE

Composer: John Ellerton, 1870

Scripture: Psalm 113: 2-3

Another of my favorites, this hymn brings back memories of my childhood and growing up Catholic. My church sang a lot of Marian hymns (hymns to Mary). I may have first become aware of this hymn sometime in my early teens. The occasion was at an evening service I attended at my father’s Anglican church that in those days boasted an all-male choir of about 25 singers. As part of the service every Sunday evening the choir would chant a Psalm, which has also contributed to my appreciation and love of chant. The service always closed with an Evening hymn, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with the beauty of this hymn as the voices of the boy trebles soared on the evening air.

This is one of several Evening hymns in the section of the hymnal dedicated to Particular Times of Worship. Written by John Ellerton in 1870, the text is based on Psalm 113 verses 2 and 3, which read: “From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the Lord is to be praised.” The beautiful flowing melody was written just four years later by Clement Scholefield and the tune is referred to as St. Clement.

It is a very comforting hymn. At the words “The darkness falls at thy behest,” I am reminded of God’s power. Even though we may change our clocks backward and forward, only God can change night into a new dawn, a new day of faith and hope.

As expressed in the text, it is comforting to know that at any given time, somewhere in the world prayer is rising up to the throne of Grace on behalf of mankind. The text is so powerful that many composers have written descants to the last verse, among them John Rutter, whose descant I particularly like.

“‘So be it Lord thy throne shall never, Like earth’s proud empires pass away.Thy kingdom stands and grows forever, till all thy creatures own thy sway.”

With words such as these and glorious descants enhancing the already beautiful melody, how can one not acknowledge what an awesome God we serve?

Olivia Ahyoung

The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended,The darkness falls at Thy behest;To Thee our morning hymns ascended,Thy praise shall hallow now our rest.

We thank Thee that Thy Church unsleeping,While earth rolls onward into light,Through all the world her watch is keeping,And rests not now by day or night.

As o'er each continent and islandThe dawn leads on another day,

The voice of prayer is never silent,Nor dies the strain of praise away.

The sun, that bids us rest, is wakingOur brethren 'neath the western sky,And hour by hour fresh lips are makingThy wondrous doings heard on high.

So be it, Lord; Thy throne shall never,Like earth's proud empires, pass away:But stand, and rule, and grow for ever,Till all Thy creatures own Thy sway.Amen

Prayer Focus: Give thanks for the universal Church.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pigh8VHr-ZE

Abide with Me Monday, March 5

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTQoPg856Ow

Author: Hamilton F. Lyte, 1847

Scripture: Luke 24:29

My father’s family were fisher-folk from Nova Scotia, so they and many people consider “Abide with Me,” with a

phrase like “fast falls the evening tide,” a funeral song. And some of the verses do deal with life and death. But I

have always heard the song as meaningful for the here-and-now so you have a here-after. We are to abide with

God and his Word, and the Holy Spirit will abide in us. We are created to abide with God in the present life so we

will abide with Him hereafter. I pray daily the words of a song that Maureen Still sang at our Women’s Retreats:

“Holy Spirit come into me—set my feet upon your sea.” When Tom Farmer told us of his favorite hymn “Are Ye

Able,” I decided “Abide with Me” would be my favorite hymn from the UMC hymnal. So, I share with you the

third verse. Makes a good prayer!

“ I need thy presence every passing hour. What by thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who, like thy self my

guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine Lord, abide with me.”

Cindy Cosper

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;

the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.

When other helpers fail and comforts flee,

Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;

earth's joys grow dim; its glories pass away.

change and decay in all around I see;

O Lord who changes not, abide with me.

I need your presence every passing hour.

What but your grace can foil the tempter's power?

Who, like yourself my guide and strength can be?

Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me.

I fear no foe, with you at hand to bless,

though ills have weight, and tears their bitterness.

Where is death's sting? Where, grave, your victory?

I triumph still, if you abide with me.

Hold now your Word before my closing eyes.

Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.

Heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee;

in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

Prayer Focus: “ I need thy presence every passing hour. What by thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who,

like thy self my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine Lord, abide with me.”

Lonely the Boat Tuesday, March 6

Author: Helen Kim, 1921

Scripture: Matthew 8:23-27

Pastor Sanders has become rather famous for choosing hymns we are unfamiliar with. Such was the case on

Sunday, January 29, when we sang “Lonely the Boat” by Helen Kim. The lyrics fit his sermon perfectly, and I

thought this song so lovely, I did some research into its history.

Helen Kim (1899-1970), born Kim Hwal-lan, was one of the most important Korean Methodists of the twentieth

century and the first Korean woman to earn a doctorate. Her life was devoted to the education of women within a

Christian context. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Korea, she traveled to the United States, where she earned

her masters and doctorate degrees. She then returned home and became president of her Korean alma mater. She

served in that capacity through WW II and the Korean Conflict.

This hymn, important in the history of Korean Methodism, is a gift to the world church. In this post-9/11 world,

"Lonely the Boat" still offers comfort and hope to a world full of war and terrorism. Reared in an occupied country,

Helen Kim understood the value of freedom. She is quoted on the Columbia University website: "Freedom is not

just a word here, not just a concept taken for granted. Its meaning is in the air we breathe, in our thoughts, in our

hearts."

Hawn, Michael C., “History of Hymns: Lonely the Boat” Discipleship Ministries, The United Methodist Church. https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-lonely-the-boat

Angie Williams

Lonely the Boat, sailing at sea, tossed on a cold, stormy night;Cruel the sea which seemed so wide, with waves so high.This single ship sailed the deep sea, straight into the gale;O Lord, great is the peril, dangers do all assail.

Strong winds arose in all their rage, tossing the tiny lone boat;Waves billowing high, tossing the boat, lost and afloat.The sailor stood all alone, wondering what to do;O Lord, so helpless was he, wondering what to do.

Trembling with fear, deep in despair, looking for help all around,The sailor saw light from above. “Help can be found;My God is here in my small boat, standing by my side;O please trust in the Savior, now in my life abide.

“Pleading for our mercy, O Lord, even a sinner like me;Command, O Lord, calm to the sea, as in Galilee!Please save my life from all danger, grant a peaceful life;O please be merciful Lord, in times of calm and strife.”

“Storms in our lives, cruel and cold, surely will arise again,Threatening lives, threatening us on life’s wild sea.Powerful and great, God’s hand is there, firmly in control.O, Lord, calm peace comes from you, peace comes to my long soul.”

Prayer Focus: Thank you, Lord for being our constant companion and our refuge in times of trouble and stress. Thank you for freedom to worship you freely.

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-lonely-the-boat

And Can It Be that I Should Gain Wednesday, March 7

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eb2Yjc1ZNxo

Author: Charles Wesley, 1738

Scripture: Philippians 2:7-8

It is especially difficult for me to pick a favorite hymn but my latest favorite hymn is "And Can It Be That I Should

Gain." It was written by Charles Wesley to celebrate his own conversion and is considered one of the best loved

of his 6,000 hymns. For me it beautifully conveys not only the Majesty of our God but also His humility in giving

up all by coming to earth to die for each of us. He "emptied Himself of all but love" on our behalf. Hearing these

words touched my heart deeply one Sunday and moved me to tears. It also led me to wonder, along with Charles

Wesley, "How can it be that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?" The answer, "Amazing love -- God's love."

Barbara George

And can it be that I should gain

An int’rest in the Savior’s blood?

Died He for me, who caused His pain?

For me, who Him to death pursued?

Amazing love! how can it be

That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

Amazing love! how can it be

That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

’Tis mystery all! The Immortal dies!

Who can explore His strange design?

In vain the firstborn seraph tries

To sound the depths of love Divine!

’Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

Let angel minds inquire no more.

’Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

Let angel minds inquire no more.

He left His Father’s throne above,

So free, so infinite His grace;

Emptied Himself of all but love,

And bled for Adam’s helpless race:

’Tis mercy all, immense and free;

For, O my God, it found out me.

’Tis mercy all, immense and free;

For, O my God, it found out me.

Long my imprisoned spirit lay

Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;

Thine eye diffused a quickening ray,

I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;

My chains fell off, my heart was free,

I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.

My chains fell off, my heart was free,

I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.

No condemnation now I dread;

Jesus, and all in Him, is mine!

Alive in Him, my living Head,

And clothed in righteousness Divine,

Bold I approach the eternal throne,

And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Bold I approach the eternal throne,

And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Prayer Focus: Pray for others to experience the joy of conversion and new life in Jesus, just as Charles Wesley

describes it in this hymn.

Sky Spills Over Thursday, March 8

https://youtu.be/RpUSMawUbto

Songwriters: Christopher Stevens, Michael W. Smith, Michael Whitaker Smith, Ryan Smith

Ezekiel 37:3-6 “Son of man, can these bones live?”

I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.”

4 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! 5 This is

what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath and enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will

attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will

come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’”

Whoa!!!! Can you hear that thunder???? Listen!!!!!

Debi Brigman

There's a rose in the desertBlooming red in the droughtThere's a quenching rainIn the wings of the gathering cloudsLift your eyesLook to the horizon nowThere's still a hope for usReach up from the dustAnd call it downCan you hearCan you hear that thunderSing His name, sing it out'Til the sky spills overI may just be dry bonesStripped of sinew and skinBut the wind of His spiritWill raise me up againI lift my eyesI look to the horizon nowOh, there's still a song to singFall down on your knees and cry aloudCan you hear

Can you hear that thunderSing His name, sing it out'Til the sky spills overI hear the rolling thunderFeel the pouring rainMy heart is filled with wonderOnly You remainI see a new horizonComing up my wayI lift my eyesI look to the horizon nowOh, there's still a song to singFall down on your knees and cry aloudI can hearI can hear that thunderI'll sing Your name, sing it out'Til the sky spills overOh, I can hear (I can hear)I can hear that thunderI'll sing Your name, sing it out'Til the sky spills over (Over)

Prayer Focus: The awesome power of our God!

https://youtu.be/RpUSMawUbto

Hymn of Promise Friday, March 9

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDpByzZqeQ4

Composer: Natalie Sleeth, 1986

Scripture: I Corinthians 15:51

Whether it’s a song that is sung in honor of a birth or a baptism, a wedding or a funeral this song is apropos. It

speaks to me of the cycle of life and the Lord who is in charge of it!

Barbara Williams

I agree with Barbara and was happy to discover that the songwriter, Natalie Sleeth, also composed one of my all-

time favorite choral anthems, “Joy in the Morning.”

Natalie Sleeth wrote many songs and anthems before her death in 1992, but “Hymn of Promise” is one of her best

known. She was Methodist, and her husband, Ronald Sleeth, was a United Methodist minister. In explaining how

this song came to be, Natalie stated that she was "pondering the ideas of life, death, spring and winter, Good

Friday and Easter, and the whole reawakening of the world that happens every spring." The anthem was written

for Pasadena Community Church, in St. Petersburg, Florida, where it was first sung and performed in 1985 under

the direction of C. Fredrick Harrison. Shortly after composing the song, Sleeth’s husband was diagnosed with a

terminal malignancy. He requested that the sung be sung at his funeral service and it was.

Angie Williams

In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree;

In cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free!

In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be,

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;

There’s a dawn in every darkness, bringing hope to you and me.

From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery,

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity;

In our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity,

In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory,

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see

Prayer Focus: Spiritual reawakening to match the earth’s reawakening in spring.

Beneath the Cross of Jesus Saturday, March 10

Author: Elizabeth C. Clephane, 1872


What does the cross mean to you? I have always loved the eloquent description found in the lyrics of this old

hymn. The writer sees the cross as a place of shelter—an abiding place. She helps us to see that the horrific

images of the cross in Holy Week will be transformed at Easter. Thank you, Elizabeth Clephane.

Elizabeth Cecilia Douglas Clephane was born in Scotland in 1830 and died in 1869. The daughter of a county

sheriff, she lived most of her brief life near Edinburgh. Though in frail health most of her life, Elizabeth found the

strength to help the poor and sick in her town. She and her sister gave all that they could spare to charity,

including, it is said, selling their horse and carriage for the benefit of the needy. The townspeople of Melrose

referred to Elizabeth as “the Sunbeam.” “Beneath the Cross of Jesus,” focusing on the shelter of the cross, was

first published three years after the author’s death.

Hawn, Michael C., History of Hymns: “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” Discipleship Ministries, The United Methodist

Church, https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-beneath-the-cross-of-jesus

Angie Williams

Beneath the cross of Jesus

I fain would take my stand,

the shadow of a mighty rock

within a weary land,

a home within the wilderness,

a rest upon the way,

from the burning of the noontide heat

and the burdens of the day.

Upon the cross of Jesus,

my eye at times can see

the very dying form of One

who suffered there for me.

And from my trite heart, with tears,

two wonders I confess:

the wonder of redeeming love

and my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, your shadow

for my abiding place;

I ask no other sunshine

than the sunshine of his face;

content to let the world go by,

to know no gain nor loss,

my sinful self my only shame,

my glory all, the cross.

Prayer Focus: What does the cross mean to you?

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-beneath-the-cross-of-jesus

Church in the Wildwood Sunday, March 11

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qgCBlH-_JM

Author: William S. Pitts, 1857


I was thinking about the hymn "Little Brown Church in the Vale" and remembering that John's home church in

Garden City Florida, where Bud Harkey and Ron McCreary both served as pastors, often sang that hymn. His

scoutmaster, Mr. McAllister, sang out on "Come, come, come, to the little brown church." Everyone in the

community loved hearing him sing that part. He was beloved by the Baptist, Nazarene and Methodist church

members there.

I was checking out the words and music on line and found two very different groups singing it on YouTube: one a

Mennonite group and one a group called The Moipei Quartet. Quite beautiful in fact. Type in "There's a church in

the valley by the wildwood" and choices will come up. There's one by Dolly Parton. too.

Pat Davis

I have blessed memories of this song, too. It was sung at every homecoming we attended at Hickory Grove

Methodist in Madison County—the church of Ray’s childhood. I can still here his dear mother’s voice as I stood

next to her singing.

Angie Williams

There's a church in the valley by the wildwood,

No lovelier spot in the dale;

No place is so dear to my childhood

As the little brown church in the vale.

Refrain:

Come to the church in the wildwood,

Oh, come to the church in the vale;

No spot is so dear to my childhood

As the little brown church in the vale.

Oh, come to the church in the wildwood,

To the trees where the wild flowers bloom;

Where the parting hymn will be chanted,

We will weep by the side of the tomb. [Refrain]

How sweet on a clear Sunday morning,

To list to the clear ringing bell;

Its tones so sweetly are calling,

Oh, come to the church in the vale. [Refrain]

From the church in the valley by the wildwood,

When day fades away into might,

I would fain from this spot of my childhood

Wing my way to the mansions of light. [Refrain]

Prayer focus: Pray for the endurance of Methodist churches in small communities and rural settings.

Revelation Song Monday, March 12

Composer: Jennie Lee Riddle, 2009

Scripture: Revelation: 5:12

A few years ago, my husband and I were on a cruise, with a lively activities director who continually tried to

generate participation in many fun or silly onboard activities. However, his banter occasionally included jokes

that were a bit off-color and inappropriate for families. I don’t think we were the only ones who were

uncomfortable. One night the activity was a talent show in the ship’s auditorium, and the activities director

sprinkled in his commentary. After several performances a young lady stepped up on the stage with a guitar and

sat down on a stool. The stage darkened as a spotlight focused on her, and she began singing,

“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, holy, holy is He….Sing a new song, to Him who sits on Heaven’s mercy seat.”

A hush fell throughout the auditorium as her beautiful voice continued,

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings, you are my everythingand I will adore You.”

As we looked around us, we saw many people smiling, some singing softly along. The entire demeanor of the

auditorium had changed – you could feel the Holy Spirit present and see it reflected in people’s faces. When she

finished, everyone cheered. And the activities director? His demeanor changed too – with the hearing of praises

to God and in the presence of God’s grace and mercy, he became more respectful in his comments for the rest of

the evening and the remainder of the cruise. I always loved that song, and that experience demonstrated the

power in its words.

Debbie Rivenburg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGgX_oqdib4

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain Holy, holy is HeSing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven's mercy seatHoly, holy, holy is the Lord God AlmightyWho was and is and is to comeWith all creation I sing praise to the King of kingsYou are my everything and I will adore You

Clothed in rainbows of living colorFlashes of lightning, rolls of thunderBlessing and honor strength and glory and power beTo You: the only wise King

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonderAt the mention of Your nameJesus, your name is power, breath and livingwaterSuch a marvelous mystery

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God AlmightyWho was and is and is to comeWith all creation I sing praise to the King of kingsYou are my everything and I will adore You I will adore You

Prayer Focus: Thanksgiving for the gift of music as a vehicle for the Holy Spirit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGgX_oqdib4

Father God (Swedish, Fader Var) Tuesday, March 13

Author: Bengt Ericksson

Scripture: Matthew 6:9-13, Luke 11:2-4

The Lord’s Prayer that is most familiar to us is in the Bible and in our hymnal. This song, however, is not in the

hymnal, although we do have it in our choral library. I really like this arrangement of the Lord’s Prayer, written by

Carl Farrer of Sweden; translated into English, we would call it a paraphrase. The words were set to music by

Bengt Ericksson and arranged by Dwight Elrich. The song is very easy to sing and remember, and to me is so fresh

and updated. The real difference is that in his version of the Our Father Prayer, Farrer includes thankfulness to

God. This turns the prayer into a “thank you” to God for Jesus.

“May your will as up in heaven in our hearts be the same. Thank you for the bread you supply...thank you for the

joy...when we pray,…thank you for the life that you gave…thank you for the love…Thine is the kingdom and the

power over sin.”

I hope our choir will sing it again after Easter.

Cindy Cosper

Father God, which art in heaven,Hallowed be They Name.May Your will, as up in heaven,In our hearts, be the same.Thank You for the bread You supply day by day.Thank You for the joyThat You give when we pray.

Lead us not into temptation, But our sons please forgive.Pardoned, Lord, are all our debtorsAs You taught us to live.Thank You for the lifeThat you gave on the cross.Thank You for the loveWhich could pay such a cost.

Father God, Thine is the kingdomAnd the pow’r over sin.Father God, Thine is the glory,And forever, Amen.

Prayer Focus: Softly, speak the words of the song.

Let There Be Peace on Earth Wednesday, March 14

Authors: Sy Miller and Jill Jackson, 1955

Scripture: James 3:18

Although it has become associated with Christmas, the song/prayer “Let there be peace on Earth and let it begin with me” is a prayer for all seasons. And it’s something that I can do that makes a difference. Challenging, yes, but just imagine what could be accomplished if, instead of reacting out of fear, or anger, or self-interest, each person consciously chose the most peaceful course. Why, we could harvest the fruit of the spirit, as well as compassion, generosity, cooperation, and so much more! Don’t we, as Christians, have a responsibility not only to pray for peace, but also to live the peace we are seeking? Let it begin with each of us.

Kathy Fearon

Let There Be Peace on Earth and let it begin with me.Let There Be Peace on Earth, the peace that was meant to be!With God as our Father, brothers all are we.Let me walk with my brother in perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me. Let this be the moment now.With ev'ry breath I take, let this be my solemn vow;To take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally!Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me!

Prayer Focus: “Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with me.”

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty Thursday, March 15

Author: Joachim Neander, 1680; translated by Catherine Winkworth, 1863

Scripture: Psalm 103:1-6

This was our morning devotional hymn. It brings feelings of nostalgia anytime I hear or sing that song.

My middle/high school education was at Methodist missionary boarding school for boys only in Uzuakoli Abia

State, Nigeria.

We had a daily morning devotional 6am-7am before breakfast and classes.

We sang this hymn religiously every morning for 5years.........The Lord works in mysterious ways. I had to travel to

Tallahassee to catch up with my fellow middle school student singer, who I must admit I ordered around since I

was the upper classman. You know him as Dr. Eric Egwu Kalu!

Tony Ichite

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!

Come, all who hear; now to his temple draw near,

join me in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord, above all things so wondrously reigning;

sheltering you under his wings, and so gently sustaining!

Have you not seen all that is needful has been

sent by his gracious ordaining?

Praise to the Lord, who will prosper your work and defend you;

surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend you.

Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,

if with his love he befriends you.

Praise to the Lord, who doth nourish thy life and restore thee,fitting thee well for the tasks that re ever before thee.Then to thy need God as a mother doth speed,spreading the wings of grace o’er thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him!

All that has life and breath, come now with praises before him.

Let the Amen sound from his people again;

gladly forever adore him.

Prayer Focus: Praise for the awesomeness of God! That he would bring Tony and Eric together again in

Tallahassee is just one example.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness Friday, March 16

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTKIqmdfHSk

Author: Thomas O. Chisholm, 1923

Scripture: Lamentations 3:23-24

This hymn has been one of my favorites for many years. To me, it is the epitome of encouragement and security

as we experience the stresses life hands to us. Knowing God is always near and never changes and his

compassion never fails is comforting.

PARDON, PEACE, CHEER, STRENGTH, HOPE and BLESSINGS are like gold nuggets that this hymn so beautifully

portrays as gifts to all believers.

Martha Capelouto

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;

There is no shadow of turning with Thee,

Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not,

As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

Refrain

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,

Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above;

Join with all nature in manifold witness,

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,

Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside.

Prayer focus: Thank you, God, for your faithfulness.

This Is My Father’s World Saturday, March 17

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1V9cpxMQkAA

Author: Maltbie D. Babcock, 1901


Every time I sing “This Is My Father’s World,” wonderful memories flood back from our UMVIM trip to

St Vincent’s island accompanied by team leader John Davis and Tom Wood. We sang along and felt such

oneness with a Church congregation on top of a hill with a beautiful view. I felt blessed to just get there! When I

arrived home, I found Dennis there with our two young girls, one of whom had a fever. Unfortunately, my mom

had been unable to help out at the last minute. We worked hard, but the folks back home did, too. Dennis

grounded me until the children grew up from any more mission trips.

Barbara Williams, MD

This is my Father's world,

And to my listening ears

All nature sings, and round me rings

The music of the spheres.

This is my Father's world:

I rest me in the thought

Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas--

His hand the wonders wrought.


The birds their carols raise,

The morning light, the lily white,

Declare their Maker's praise.


He shines in all that's fair;

In the rustling grass I hear Him pass,

He speaks to me everywhere.


O let me ne'er forget

That though the wrong seems oft so strong,

God is the Ruler yet.


Why should my heart be sad?

The Lord is King: let the heavens ring!

God reigns; let earth be glad!

Prayer Focus: Joy in God’s creation!

Speak, O Lord Sunday, March 18

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubRlJj8xkds

Songwriter: Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, 2005

Scripture: Ephesians 4:23

What a wonderful thought that our creator God wants to speak to us. So, as we gather for group worship to hear

the Sunday sermon by the pastor, or as we individually turn aside for a time of personal devotion, this song

becomes our prayer for Illumination. As we read or sing the words of this song, we express our heart’s desire to

be like Christ. How beautiful is that!

Gene Kelly

Speak, O Lord, as we come to You

To receive the food of your holy word.

Take Your truth, plant it deep in us;

Shape and fashion us in Your likeness,

That the light of Christ might be seen today

In our acts of love and our deeds of faith.

Speak, O Lord, and fulfil in us

All Your purposes, for Your glory.

Teach us Lord full obedience,

Holy reverence, true humility.

Test our thoughts and our attitudes

In the radiance of Your purity.

Cause our faith to rise

Cause our eyes to see,

Your majestic love and authority.

Words of power that can never fail;

Let their truth prevail over unbelief.

Speak, O Lord, and renew our minds;

Help us grasp the heights of Your plans for us.

Truths unchanged from the dawn of time,

That will echo down through eternity.

And by grace we'll stand on Your promises;

And by faith we'll walk as You walk with us.

Speak, O Lord, 'til your church is built

And the earth is filled with Your glory.

Prayer Focus: Jesus, help me be more like you.

I Am Thine, O Lord Monday, March 19

Piano accompaniment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9Eq1rY_Wuo

Author: Fanny J. Crosby, 1875

Scripture: Hebrews 10:22

The song has meaning for me because of the personal faith challenges it describes. We may never fathom, as

mortals, the love of God for each individual. It is a very prayerful song for all indeed.

Eric Egwu Kalu

I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice,

and it told thy love to me;

but I long to rise in the arms of faith

and be closer drawn to thee.

Refrain:

Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,

to the cross where thou hast died.

Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,

to thy precious, bleeding side.

Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord,

by the power of grace divine;

let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,

and my will be lost in thine.

(Refrain)

O the pure delight of a single hour

that before thy throne I spend,

when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God,

I commune as friend with friend!

(Refrain)

There are depths of love that I cannot know

till I cross the narrow sea;

there are heights of joy that I may not reach

till I rest in peace with thee.

(Refrain)

Prayer Focus: Allowing God to lead me in service to Him.

Morning Has Broken Tuesday, March 20

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wzMqtbubzs

Words: Eleanor Farjeon, 1931Music: Traditional Gaelic melody; harmony by Carlton R. Young, 1988 Scripture: John 1:1-15 When I first started attending John Wesley and singing in the choir, I was invited to sing an offertory by Lewis Jones as a solo. He did not suggest anything and I was faced with a very hard decision. I had just begun collectingfor my own music library. While browsing in the music store, I saw sheet music for a favorite old hymn, "MorningHas Broken." That was my first solo at John Wesley. It always made me happy and full of hope, when I was the least bit sad or down, as a child. Lent is a season of self- searching for me and when I come up lacking, as we all do as sinners, the message I am searching for is one of hope. Even though this is not an Easter or Lenten song, it is one that fills me with joy. When we say that morning has "broken," "broken” does not mean the same thing as a broken promise or toy. Instead, it means that morning comes forth suddenly, breaking through the darkness, and it almost seems like a surprise. Sometimes when we look at the world around us, it seems like a beautiful surprise and we are looking at it with new sight. We can hear birds singing as dawn breaks forth, and we are reminded of God's creating the world and that we are ready for a new day. The Gospel of John begins with "In the beginning was the Word." The "Word" is Jesus, who is one of God's ways of "speaking" to the world. John writes that all things were created through the Word—Jesus—and that Jesus was there in the beginning of all things. This is a folk-song written long ago and set to the lovely Gaelic melody "Bunessan." Alexander Fraser heard the singing of a wandering highlander in Scotland and transcribed the music. The words were written by Eleanor Farjeon, a popular English children's author.

Ann Todd

Morning has broken,Like the first morning,Blackbird has spokenLike the first bird;Praise for the singing,Praise for the morning,Praise for them springingFresh from the Word.

Sweet the rain's new fall,Sunlit from heaven,Like the first dewfallOn the first grass;Praise for the sweetness,Of the wet garden,Sprung in completenessWhere his feet pass.

Mine is the sunlight,Mine is the morning,Born of the one lightEden saw play;Praise with elation,Praise every morning,God's re-creationOf the new day.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for the song of the blackbird and for a new a new day, and that all things were created through Jesus, God's "Word."

It Is Well with My Soul Wednesday, March 21

Author: Horatio Spafford

Scripture: Phillipians 4:7

“It is Well with my Soul’’ became my favorite hymn when Chip Jordan sang it as a solo, many moons ago. Horatio Spafford was a hymnist in the Presbyterian church; he was a Job-like character, a righteous man…a very successful lawyer. At the height of his success, things began to change, just like in Job’s story. His son died at age 2 and the great Chicago fire destroyed his real estate holdings. In 1876 his four daughters perished aboard the SS Ville du Havre. “When sorrow like sea billows roll.” It’s hard to fathom the depth of sorrow he endured AND STILL “it is well with my soul.” We can only dream/hope for his perspective.

Carolyn Glynn

One of our most popular hymns, “It Is Well with My Soul,” was penned by hymn writer Horatio Spafford following traumatic events in his life. The first was the death of his son at the age of 2 and then the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which ruined him financially. (Spafford had been a successful lawyer and had invested significantly in property in the area of Chicago that was damaged by the fire). His business interests were further hit by the economic downturn of 1873, at which time he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on the SS Ville du Havre. In a late change of plan, he sent the family ahead while he was delayed on business concerning zoning problems following the fire. While crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the ship collided with the sea vessel Loch Earn; it sank quickly and all four of Spafford's daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him a telegram that began, "Saved alone …". Shortly afterwards, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died.

Chip Jordan

When peace like a river, attendeth my way,When sorrows like sea billows roll;Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to sayIt is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain:It is well, (it is well),With my soul, (with my soul)It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,Let this blest assurance control,That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!My sin, not in part but the whole,Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:If Jordan above me shall roll,No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life,Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

But Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,The sky, not the grave, is our goal;Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,Even so, it is well with my soul.

Prayer Focus: Heavenly Father, thank you for being there in the darkest times of our lives. Thank you for carrying us through these moments when we lose faith. Thank you for grieving with us, caring for us and loving us. Amen.

The Majesty and Glory of His Name Thursday, March 22

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfaQ8qoCUaA

Composers: Linda Lee Johnson (lyrics), Tom Fettke (music)

Scripture: Psalm 8

Oh, how I love this choral anthem! The choir has sung it many times here at John Wesley with just aboutevery choir director we’ve ever had, but I know it was a special favorite of Lewis Jones and Olivia Ahyoung. The movement of the music, harmonies, and content make this a “not your average Sunday” anthem, often reserved for special occasions.

The scripture-based lyrics are beautiful enough, but Tom Fettke gives them a wonderfully dramatic interpretation with his music. He captures the mystery of God’s creation and His love for us in the first part of the song, and then moves into a poignant praise of God with the “majesty and glory of Your name.” Then come the magnificent Alleluias that build and build to a fabulous climax, followed by an almost prayerful finish. Ahh…you just need to listen to it.

Angie Williams

When I gazeInto the night skyAnd see the workOf Your fingersThe moon and starsSuspended in spaceBut what is manThat You are mindful of him?

You have given manA crown of glory and honorAnd have made himA little lower than the angelsYou have put himIn charge of all creationThe beasts of the fieldThe birds of the air

The fish of the seaBut what is manOh, what is manThat You are mindful of him?

O Lord, our GodThe majesty and gloryOf Your nameTranscends the earthAnd fills the heavensO Lord, our GodLittle children praise Him perfectlyAnd so would weAnd so would weAlleluia, AlleluiaThe majesty and glory of Your nameAlleluia, Alleluia

Prayer Focus: How can we praise God as perfectly as little children?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfaQ8qoCUaA

The Spirit Song Friday, March 23

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWEDBaFy0SI

Author: John Wimber, 1979

Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-19

This hymn, “Spirit Song,” was written by John Wimber in 1979, so It is a more recent addition to our hymnal. It is

in the section under prevenient grace and speaks to our need to give our tears and pain to Jesus when he enters

into our life. He enfolds us with his spirit and his love, fills our heart and satisfies our soul. Then he makes us

whole. When I sing this hymn, I am able "to sing this song with gladness," and then my heart is filled with joy.

Jesus told Peter to "feed my lambs." We are able to call on Jesus "to come and fill your lambs. "The music and

the words truly "satisfy my soul." Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill us.

Pat Davis

I am always drawn to songs that have beautiful melodies and “Spirit Song” is no exception. It is simple, but feels good to sing, so everyone can feel comfortable participating, regardless of talent. The lyrics encourage you to let go and just enjoy communing with the Holy Spirit. It effectively does this because it is in part, instructional. Those unsure of how to approach receiving the Holy Spirit are given specific direction: “…let him have the things that hold you…”; “Lift your hands in sweet surrender… .” It makes it easy to participate and to give in to the spirit. The lyrics then go beyond instruction and give the singer the opportunity to lift their voice and sing to theirLord and savior directly: “Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.” When we truly let go of our fears and inhibitions and let the spirit take control, the blessing of reassurance, of hope, and the renewal of faith is immediate. To think you can get all that by singing a simple three-minute song! God is good… .

Angelyn Hirai

Oh, let the Son of God enfold you

with his Spirit and his love;

Let him fill your heart and satisfy your soul.

Oh, let him have the things that hold you,

and his Spirit, like a dove,

Will descend upon your life and make you

whole.

Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.


Oh, come and sing the song with gladness

as your hearts are filled with joy.

Lift your hands in sweet surrender to his

name.

Oh, give him all your tears and sadness,

give him all your years of pain,

And you'll enter into life in Jesus' name.



Oh, let the Son of God enfold you

with his Spirit and his love;

Let him fill your heart and satisfy your soul.

Oh, let him have the things that hold you,

and his Spirit, like a dove,


whole.


whole.

Prayer Focus: Lord, thank you for your gift of the Holy Spirit.

Tell Me the Stories of Jesus Saturday, March 24

Author: William H. Parker (1885)

Scripture: Matthew 19:13-15; 21:8-9; Mark 10:13-16; 11:8-10; John 12:13

I have always loved this hymn. The tune is a simple one, and the words make me happy. This song takes me

back to childhood days in Sunday School. Sunday school was always about stories--Jesus feeding the masses

with five loaves and two fish, calming the Sea of Galilee for his panicking disciples in a boat, walking on water,

raising Lazarus from the dead—these are some of the images that come to my mind whenever we sing this song.

Take a look at verse three--It’s the entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate on Palm Sunday. When we sing this

song, we become a part of the story. Can’t you see yourself waving a palm branch and singing hosannas?

Stories and songs are so important in the faith development of children, but they still speak to older folks, too.

Angie Williams

Tell me the stories of JesusI love to hear;Things I would ask Him to tell meIf He were here:Scenes by the wayside,Tales of the sea,Stories of Jesus,Tell them to me.

First let me hear how the childrenStood 'round His knee,And I shall fancy His blessing Resting on me;Words full of kindness,Deeds full of grace,All in the love lightOf Jesus' face.

Into the city I'd follow,There take my stand,Waving a branch of the palm treeHigh in my hand;One of His heralds,Yes, I would singLoudest hosannas,"Jesus is King!"

Prayer Focus: Pray for our children and grandchildren to grow in their faith and love of Jesus.

All Glory, Laud, and Honor Palm Sunday Sunday, March 25

Author: Theodulph of Orleans, 8-9th cent.; translated by John Mason Neale, 1951

Scripture: Mathew 21:1-17

An interesting bit of history and legend are associated with this hymn that dates back to the Middle Ages. First

the history: Theodulph was a writer, poet, and the Bishop of Orléans (c. 798 to 818) during the reign

of Charlemagne. However, Charlemagne’s son and successor, Louis I, ordered Theodulph exiled for perceived

wrongdoing. Theodulph composed many poems and hymns in his lifetime—at least 80 have been preserved.

Some were composed during his two-year imprisonment in Augers, France.

And now, the legend: While passing through Augers with a procession on a certain Sunday, King Louis was

stopped by the beautiful sound of singing in the tower above him. It was Theodulph, singing these words in full

voice from the tower room of his exile. Louis was so moved, he pardoned the saint and ordered the hymn to be

sung every year on Palm Sunday.

Today, we can sing this hymn, lifting our voices high and loud on Palm Sunday, or anytime, as we retell the story

of Christ, our King!

Adapted from: Hawn, Michael C., “History of Hymns: All Glory, Laud and Honor” Discipleship Ministries, The

United Methodist Church https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-all-glory-laud-and-honor

Angie Williams

Refrain: All glory, laud, and honor,

to thee, Redeemer, King,

to whom the lips of children

made sweet hosannas ring.

Thou art the King of Israel,

thou David's royal Son,

who in the Lord's name comest,

the King and Blessed One.

The company of angels

are praising thee on high,

and we with all creation

in chorus make reply.

The people of the Hebrews

with psalms before thee went;

our prayer and praise and anthems

before thee we present.

To thee, before thy passion,

they sang their hymns of praise;

to thee, now high exalted,

our melody we raise.

Thou didst accept their praises;

accept the prayers we bring,

who in all good delightest,

thou good and gracious King.

Prayer focus: Imprisoned men and women everywhere and those called to serve in prison ministries.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishop_of_Orl%C3%A9ans

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-all-glory-laud-and-honor

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlemagne

We Believe Monday, March 26

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbDNo_svjmU

Songwriter: Travis Ryan, 2013

Scripture: I Corinthians 15

This song is a modern one that interprets our affirmation of faith to new generations through its words and

arrangement. To me it is an uplifting and concise statement of Christian belief. I wish we could recite it more often

than the traditional one. In 2016 I heard it at the FLUMC Women’s Retreat, at the Florida Annual Conference, and

many times on the radio. I liked it so much I bought copies for our John Wesley Choir, and we have sung it a few

times. I wish we could all sing it along with the video accompaniment. I have included the choir version in UMW

Sundays. To me this modern version fits with Pastor Armando’s preference for WE believe in the universal church.

Can our faith be greater or even equal to this song? How can we show our neighbors the new life the Holy Spirit

keeps giving us?

The affirmation chorus goes “We believe in God the Father. We believe in Jesus Christ. We believe in the Holy

Spirit, and He’s given us new life. We believe in the crucifixion. We believe that He conquered death. We believe in

the resurrection, and He’s coming back again.”

Cindy Cosper

In this time of desperation

When all we know is doubt and fear

There is only one foundation

We believe, we believe

In this broken generation

When all is dark, You help us see

There is only one salvation

We believe, we believe

We believe in God the Father

We believe in Jesus Christ

We believe in the Holy Spirit

And He's given us new life

We believe in the crucifixion

We believe that He conquered death

We believe in the resurrection

And He's comin' back again, we believe

So, let our faith be more than anthems

Greater than the songs we sing

And in our weakness and temptations

We believe, we believe!

Let the lost be found and the dead be raised!

In the here and now, let love invade!

Let the church live loud our God we'll say


And the gates of hell will not prevail!

For the power of God, has torn the veil!

Now we know Your love will never fail!


We believe in God the Father

We believe in Jesus Christ

We believe in the Holy Spirit

And He's given us new life!

We believe in the crucifixion!

We believe that He conquered death!

We believe in the resurrection!

And He's comin' back

He's comin' back again!

He's comin' back again!

We believe!

We believe

Prayer focus: For those living in despair to find hope and new life in Jesus Christ!

https://genius.com/Newsboys-we-believe-lyrics#note-9131316









The Gift of Love Tuesday, March 27

A traditional English melody with text written by: Hal Hopson, 1972

Scripture: I Corinthians 13:1-3

The first time I heard “The Gift of Love,” it immediately became one of my favorite songs. This catchy melody

comes from an old English folk song called “O Waly, Waly”. In fact, many of the songs in our hymnal are old folk

melodies with the text changed. This was intentionally done to help people remember the words. The lyrics for,

“The Gift of Love” paraphrase the book of 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. This scripture inspires us to reflect on our words,

actions and deeds, with consideration of what our true motivation is. We are reminded in this text that God’s

Love should be evident in every aspect of our lives. Demonstrating this love is critical to developing our own

relationship with God. I often find myself humming this beautiful melody for no apparent reason, which causes

me to search for the words that go with the notes. It is always a blessing because found in the lyrics is a message

that I need reminding of everyday.

Angelyn Hirai

Though I may speak with bravest fire,

And have the gift to all inspire,

And have not love, my words are vain,

As sounding brass, and hopeless gain.

Though I may give all I possess,

And striving so my love profess,

But not be given by love within,

The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,

Our spirits long to be made whole.

Let inward love guide every deed;

By this we worship, and are freed.

Prayer Focus: Lord, help me speak and act in ways that reflect your amazing love.

Thief Wednesday, March 28

Listen to this song by the band, Third Day: https://youtu.be/c2w6v790qAM

Songwriters: David Carr Bradley B. C. Avery, 1996

Scripture: Luke 23:32-43:

32 Two others also, who were criminals, were being led away to be put to death with Him. 33 When they came to

the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left.

34 But Jesus was saying, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots,

dividing up His garments among themselves. 35 And the people stood by, looking on. And even the rulers were

sneering at Him, saying, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One." 36

The soldiers also mocked Him, coming up to Him, offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, "If You are the King of

the Jews, save Yourself!" 38 Now there was also an inscription above Him, "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." 39

One of the criminals who were hanged there was hurling abuse at Him, saying, "Are You not the Christ? Save

Yourself and us!" 40 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, "Do you not even fear God, since you are

under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 "And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we

deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." 42 And he was saying, "Jesus, remember me when

You come in Your kingdom!" 43 And He said to him, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise."

Grace is unspeakably profound. Every other religion in the world says, ‘Here is what you must do.’ Only the

gospel of Jesus says, ‘Here is what someone else has already done.’

Need I say more?

Debi Brigman

I am a thief, I am a murderer

Walking up this lonely hill

What have I done? No, I don't remember

No one knows just how I feel

And I know that my time is coming soon

It's been so long, oh, such a long time

Since lived with peace and rest

Now I am here, my destination

I guess things work for the best

And I know that my time is coming soon

Who is this man? This man beside me

They call the King of the Jews

They don't believe that He's the Messiah

But somehow, I know that it's true

They laugh at Him in mockery

And they beat Him 'til He bleeds

And they nail Him to the rugged cross

They raise Him, yeah, they raise Him up next

to me

My time has come and I'm slowly fading

I deserve what I receive

Jesus when You are in Your kingdom

Could You please, please remember me?

And He looks at me still holding on

The tears fall from His eyes

And He says I tell the truth

Today, you will be with Me in paradise

And I know that my time, yes my time is

coming soon

And I know that my time, yes my time, is

coming soon

And I know Paradise, Paradise is coming

soon

Prayer Focus: Jesus offers salvation to EVERYONE… What marvelous grace!

https://youtu.be/c2w6v790qAM

At the Cross (Alas! and Did My Savior Bleed) Thursday, March 29

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sn-TSrNlS8

Author: Isaac Watts, 1707; Refrain by Ralph Hudson, 1885

Scripture: I Timothy 2:5-7

One would be hard pressed to find a more vivid depiction of the Passion of Christ than the one found in the lyrics

of this very old hymn. While singing, we are cast as shame-filled, grieving witnesses to his crucifixion. The last

verse refers to the debt we repay in our personal surrender. The United Methodist Hymnal omits the refrain

included in many other hymnals, but I have always appreciated its memorable melody and uplifting last words:

“And now I am happy all the day.”

Angie Williams

Alas! and did my Savior bleed

And did my Sov’reign die?

Would He devote that sacred head

For sinners such as I?

Was it for crimes that I had done

He groaned upon the tree?

Amazing pity! Grace unknown!

And love beyond degree!

Well might the sun in darkness hide

And shut his glories in,

When God the mighty Maker died,

For man the creature’s sin.

Thus might I hide my blushing face

While His dear cross appears,

Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,

And melt my eyes to tears.

But drops of grief can ne’er repay

The debt of love I owe:

Here, Lord, I give myself away,

’Tis all that I can do.

Refrain (Hudson):

At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light,

And the burden of my heart rolled away,

It was there by faith I received my sight,

And now I am happy all the day!

Prayer Focus: For nonbelievers to experience the grace of God and the love of Jesus we have found in surrender

to Him.

Were You There? Good Friday Friday, March 30

Author: African-American Spiritual

Scripture: Matthew 5:44

“Were You There” is included in almost every major hymnal of the last thirty years, and is one of the most prominent and popular of the African-American spirituals. Like most spirituals, the origins of “Were You There” cannot be traced because it wasn’t written by an individual, but out of the communal slave experience. Paul Westermeyer notes in Evangelical Lutheran Worship that its first published iteration came in 1899 in William E. Barton’s Old Plantation Songs in the section “Recent Negro Melodies.” It originally included four stanzas:

1. Were you there when they crucified my Lord?2. …when they nailed him to the cross?3. …when they pierced him in the side?4. …when the sun refused to shine?

The United Methodist Hymnal includes a fifth - “…when they laid him in the tomb?”

While we are continuing our journey through Lent and prepare for Good Friday, we will likely sing “Were You There.” This hymn calls upon us to remember not only Christ’s death, but also the stories of all those who suffer at the hand of oppression. Mass incarceration, discriminatory drug policies, and police brutality continue to disproportionately target African Americans and other people of color. But this song continues to give comfort tothe oppressed; they serve a suffering Savior especially present in their suffering. Yet, it also asks those of us in privileged positions of comfort not only if we “were there” at the cross of Christ, but also if we are there in the suffering of the oppressed where Christ’s cross still stands.

From UMC Discipleship website - https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-were-you-there

Chip Jordan

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?Were you there when they crucified my Lord?Oh! sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the cross?Were you there when they nailed him to the cross?Oh! sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.Were you there when they nailed him to the cross?

Were you there when they pierced him in the side?Were you there when they pierced him in the side?Oh! sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.Were you there when they pierced him in the side?

Were you there when the sun refused to shine?Were you there when the sun refused to shine?Oh! sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.Were you there when the sun refused to shine?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-were-you-there

Oh! sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

Pray Focus: Father of all creation, help us to remember your Son’s pain and suffering, as well as those suffering oppression of any kind, here on Earth. Help us to be compassionate to those less fortunate than us. Amen.

There’s Something About That Name Saturday, March 31

Songwriter: Gloria Gaither and Williams J. Gaither, 1970

Scripture: Acts 3:16

Lent is almost over, and tomorrow is that most glorious of all days of the year—EASTER! The song today is a

praise tribute to JESUS Christ, our Lord and Savior.

This hymn is short, sweet, simple in word and tune…but powerful! Do you remember the Sunday after

Christmas when Jann Pettway preached while Pastor Sanders was away? After Jann’s meaningful message, we

closed the service with this hymn. After singing it through twice, I could feel the Holy Spirit moving through us as

a congregation. Martha finished playing, but Jann had felt it, too, and exclaimed, “Let’s do that again!” We did,

and it was wonderful!

Simplicity can be a great gift. Often times, simple prayers, like simple songs, can be very powerful. I often

practice those quick, easy, in the moment prayers known as “breath prayers.” As need arises, I simply say His

name, and state the need or praise. By simply speaking his name, I feel instantly connected. There really is

“something about that name.”

Angie Williams

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus; there's just something about that name

Master, Savior, Jesus, like the fragrance after the rain;

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, let all Heaven and earth proclaim

Kings and kingdoms will all pass away

But there's something about that name

Kings and kingdoms will all pass away

But there's something about that name!

Prayer Focus: Lord, help us find the gift in simple things.

Christ the Lord Is Risen Today Easter Sunday – April 1

Author: Charles Wesley, 1739

Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10

Like so many of our beloved hymns, this one tells a story, the story of the Resurrection. When we sing it on

Easter Sunday, our voices soar in triumph. We’ve won!

Jesus and His Followers: Salvation and Eternal Life

Death and Despair: 0

We have two momentous days of hope and renewal in our Christian calendar: Christmas and Easter. Not

coincidentally, these are the two days that greater numbers of people feel compelled to attend church services.

In times of darkness and despair, there is a community of like souls we can join, and with them, have our hope

rejuvenated. What better way to do that than by lifting our voices in a song of gratitude and victory?

Kathy Fearon

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!

Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!

Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

Love's redeeming work is done, Alleluia!

Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!

Death in vain forbids him rise, Alleluia!

Christ has opened paradise, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!

Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!

Once he died our souls to save, Alleluia!

Where's thy victory, boasting grave? Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!

Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!

Made like him, like him we rise, Alleluia!

Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, Alleluia!

Praise to thee by both be given, Alleluia!

Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia!

Hail the Resurrection, thou, Alleluia!

King of glory, soul of bliss, Alleluia!

Everlasting life is this, Alleluia!

Thee to know, thy power to prove, Alleluia!

Thus to sing, and thus to love, Alleluia!

Prayer Focus: Keeping the joy and hope implicit in this hymn alive.

Documents

Lenten Devotional 2018 - Methodist Church · throughout this Lenten season. This is a compilation of some of our church family’s favorite songs of faith. The collection is diverse