By Pastor Mark Woodward
Maple Leaf Parish of the UMC Cherry Grove, Fountain, Preston, and Spring Valley: Faith
Churches (and Lenora)
Did you know that during his lifetime, Rev. Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 Christian hymns? He along with his brother Rev. John Wesley were major figures in the Methodist movement. Wesley’s hymns expressed some of the core beliefs and theology of the Christian faith. He was born in 1707 in Epworth, England and during his life wrote powerful and inspiring hymns including “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” and “Christ the Lord is Risen Today.”
I love to draw on the rich theology of traditional Christian hymns. A song that has often brought emotional tears to my eyes was written by Charfles Wesley in 1739. When I read or sing “O FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING” (p. 57 UMC Hymnal) I realize the deep inner joy brought by my relationship with Jesus.
“O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer’s praise, the glories of my God and King, the triumphs of his grace!
My gracious Master and my God, assist me to proclaim, to spread through all the earth abroad the honors of thy name.
Jesus! The name that charms our fears, that bids our sorrows cease; ‘tis music in the sinner’s ears, ‘tis life, and health and peace.
He breaks the power of canceled sin, he sets the prisoner free; his blood can make the foulest clean, his blood availed for me.
He speaks, and listening to his voice, new life the dead receive, the mournful, broken hearts rejoice, the humble; poor believe.”
This rich, powerful and inspiring hymn expresses the foundation upon which Christian life and faith are built. I have often used this hymn in my own personal devotions as well as during worship services. It allows me to realize again and again the awesome power of God’s redeeming love in Jesus Christ.
The hymn concludes with these triumphant words:
“IN CHRIST, YOUR HEAD, YOU THEN SHALL KNOW, SHALL FEEL YOUR SINS FORGIVEN, ANTICIPATE YOUR HEAVEN BELOW, AND OWN THAT LOVE IN HEAVEN.”
I find it inspiring and uplifting that a hymn written in 1739 still expresses and communicates the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! I hope you have a beautiful day today and please know just how much you are loved!
God’s blessings always,
Mark Woodward
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