First things first — Happy Birthday, Amy. I am privileged that you call me your husband.
Now on to this morning’s drive. As I was detouring through Jasper this morning, I began singing without the radio. I was singing one of my favorite hymns — Nearer, Still Nearer (by Lelia N. Morris, 1898). I love this song for a couple of reasons:
- The words and music go hand in hand. This is not always the case with church songs. Some songs have great lyrics, but the music takes away from the message. Others have great musical themes, but the words are trite or sometimes archaic.
- The message of the song is a great, life-long desire; to be ever nearer to God and Christ. I long for the day when I am near to Christ in heaven and can walk and talk with Him face to face.
- Verses 2 and 3 of the song break my heart and humble my spirit.
Nearer, still nearer, nothing I bring,
Naught as an off’ring to Jesus my King,
Only my sinful, now contrite heart;
Grant me the cleansing Thy blood doth impart.
Naught as an off’ring to Jesus my King,
Only my sinful, now contrite heart;
Grant me the cleansing Thy blood doth impart.
Nearer, still nearer, Lord, to be Thine;
Sin, with its follies, I gladly resign,
All of its pleasures, pomp and its pride;
Give me but Jesus, my Lord crucified.
As I wipe the tears from my eyes and bow my head in prayer asking to grow nearer to God, I ask you – What is your favorite church (worship) song?
Have a great day!
Scott
