Greetings to you in the powerful, wonderful, beautiful name of Jesus Christ – THE Risen Saviour! What a lovely last day of winter morning in the kingdom! Yes, I am ‘old school’ and the seasons change,for me, on the 21st of March-June-September-December. However, this is the day that God has made for us and we choose to rejoice and give thanks…for His faithfulness and goodness. I trust that you have had a good week – in spite of all the radical adjustments that you had to make. We are finding out that one of the necessary abilities that we need to face life is…’flexibility’. Today I will be praying for you, asking Father to be your hiding place – your refuge from trouble – the lifter of your head.
Last night I was able to watch a replay of an Irish Hymn Sing that was presented by Keith & Kristin Getty and their young daughters on Saint Patrick’s Day. It was a happy family time and not professional by any means. The highlight for me was the introduction of a new worship song – Christ Our Hope In Life And Death. In referencing the background to the writing of this hymn we were told that it was based on the first lines of the Heidelberg Confession, one of the most ancient statements of faith. Since this ancient confession was being sung by such young people, I think there was a unique freshness to it.
The song, in quite a timely moment, was officially launched today. I say ‘timely’ because of the circumstances our world is facing at this point in history. I want to share the words for you to ponder…and hopefully we will be able to sing them together soon.
What is our hope in life and death?-Christ alone, Christ alone.-What is our only confidence?-That our souls to Him belong.-Who holds our days within His hand?-What comes, apart from His command?-And what will keep us to the end?-The love of Christ, in which we stand.
O sing hallelujah!-Our hope springs eternal;-O sing hallelujah!-Now and ever we confess-Christ our hope in life and death.
What truth can calm the troubled soul?-God is good, God is good.-Where is His grace and goodness known?-In our great Redeemer’s blood.-Who holds our faith when fears arise?-Who stands above the stormy trial?-Who sends the waves that bring us nigh-Unto the shore, the rock of Christ?
Now, take some time and read over the lyrics..what hope…what confidence…who holds…what will keep…what truth can calm…who holds…who stands…who sends — Christ our hope in life and death! We need to grab those words as a statement of our faith in these troubled times.
Something to ponder…have a great weekend…be blessed and be a blessing.
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