The Richness of Hymns
As we are in the season of Lent, it is a time of preparation, of recognizing our need for God, to see our inability to meet God’s standard on our own,and finding ways to serve God. I know that is oversimplified, but within the Lenten hymns we hear some powerful words. I’d like to look at the hymn “In the hour of trial”. We hear the plea of the believer who understands life without God. It begins, “In the hour of trial, Jesus, plead for me lest by base denial I unworthy be. When you see me waver, with a look recall, nor for fear or favor ever let me fall.” The writer recognizes that their hope rests in what Jesus is doing for them. Even though He died on the cross some 2000 years ago, the writer understands that it is still the basis of our hope today. When we are faced with obstacles, temptation, and spiritual struggles, we need to call out to Jesus for help me so that I don’t fall away. The second verse states, “With forbidden pleasures should this vain world charm or its tempting treasures spread to work me harm, bring to my remembrance sad Gethsemane or, in darker semblance, cross-crowned Calvary.” The world is filled with temptations seducing us to seek comfort and pleasure apart from God. When I recognize the powerful pull of the Devil, the world, and my own sinful nature, I remember Jesus earnest prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane and the suffering and death of my Savior. The third verse “Should your mercy send me sorrow, toil, and woe, or should pain attend me on my path below, grant that I may never fail your cross to view; grant that I may ever cast my care on you.” If God allows me to experience sorrow, toil, and pain, may I never take my eyes away from Him. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, blaming God, or giving up, I am reminded again of the great love Jesus expressed as He suffered on the cross for me. No matter what my lot, I know I can bring it to the Lord and find comfort and peace in His presence. The last verse, “When my life is ending, though in grief or pain, when my body changes back to dust again, on your truth relying, through that mortal strife, Jesus, take me, dying, to eternal life.” The faithful will experience persecution and trials, but through faith, death doesn’t become the end. By trusting Jesus, death brings eternal life. God, thank You for the many amazing writers that paint such powerful pictures of your amazing love and mercy. Help us, Jesus. Amen