Hymn: “For All the Saints” – William W. How (1823-1897)
Typical Tune: SINE NOMINE
Most of us would love to be brave of heart and strong of arm…
like the biblical musician king, David.
I never saw the movie Braveheart. I am not into watch-the-exit-sign
gore, and a friend of mine Steve Fullmer told me, “Do NOT see this movie, Rg.
You’ll never make it through it.” So Carlita went to see it with our Denver
dentist Wanda Dufrene. But I think of Mel Gibson running around in a kilt every
time this hymn-line goes past!
This hymn-line is a reaction to having heard the “distant
triumph song” of the saints who have gone before us into the realms of heaven…
those who confessed their faith boldly for all the world to know… and who now rest
from their labors.
If we could literally hear the songs of heaven ringing in
our ears, I think our hearts would be strengthened, and we might more boldly,
bravely stand up, stand up for Jesus as soldiers of the cross. The truth is I Can Only Imagine what that mighty
chorus might be singing today, but I’m pretty sure a part of their repertoire
is the great hymns of the faith, those they took with them to heaven, embedded
deep within those brave hearts. “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty,” or “Crown
Him with Many Crowns, the Lamb upon His Throne,” or “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,
O God My Father.”
These distant songs of triumph sung by the heroes of the
faith who stand face to face with Christ my Savior – these are the songs that
may enliven my day and enbraven me, even when my heart is breaking and my
physical abilities may have waned.
“He gives strength to
the weary and increases the power of the weak… Those who wait upon the Lord
shall renew their strength… soar like eagles… run without weariness… walk without
feeling faint.” (from Isaiah 40:29, 31)
Listen up, y’all! Join in the triumph song! Let’s hear it!
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