Dear Friends in Christ,
This Summer we’ve been reflecting on some of our questions of faith during Wednesday evening worship. Tonight we’re “switching gears” just a bit. During the final three weeks of our summer worship services, we’ll be focusing on the lyrics of some of our favorite hymns.
There’s a compelling reason for doing so beyond the hold they have on our hearts. Over the years, I’ve had occasion to ask people what their favorite Bible passages and hymns are. And, what I’ve discovered is this: usually, people’s lists of favorite hymns are much longer than their list of favorite Bible passages!
Now, probably this reflects the fact that most people have sung more hymns than they have read passages in the Bible. Thus, they have more familiarity with hymn lyrics than with Scripture’s words. How about you?
To the degree this may be so, it means that many people’s beliefs of faith may have been more influenced by writers of hymns than by authors of Scripture. Which may account for why many people often become upset when hymn lyrics are re-written by later authors!
With these thoughts in mind, we’ll consider the faith expression and history behind three favorite hymns over the coming Wednesdays: How Great Thou Art, Amazing Grace, and For the Beauty of the Earth. Not only will we enjoy singing these hymns, we’ll learn more about our Christian faith and, perhaps, discover some interesting surprises! I hope you can join us for worship during this short series before we resume Sunday worship on September 8th.
Blessings of Wonder and Joy,
Pastor Ed