Sunday, March 16, 2008

A Hymn for Sunday

Come, Christians, join to sing- Alleluia! Amen!
Loud Praise to Christ out King- Alleluia! Amen!
Let all with heart and voice, Before His throne rejoice:
Praise is His gracious choice: Alleluia! Amen!

Come, lift your hearts on high- Alleluia! Amen!
Let praises fill the sky-Alleluia! Amen!
He is out Guide and Friend, To us He'll condescend;
His love shall never end: Alleluia! Amen!


Praise yet out Christ again- Alleluia! Amen!
Life shall not end the strain- Alleluia! Amen!
On heaven's blissful shore His goodness we'll adore,
Singing forever more, "Alleluia! Amen!"
Words: Christian H. Bateman, 1813-1889
Music: Benjamin Carr, 1769-1831
"Come Christians, Join to Sing" began as a Sunday school song for children. Originally entitled, "Come, Children, Join to Sing," the hymn's name was changed when its author realized everyone loved to sing his hymn. The hymn was written in 1843 and first appeared in a Scottish hymnbook for children entitled Sacred Melodies for Sabbath Schools and families.
The words "alleluia" and "amen" are found in each stanza, drawing on rich biblical language. "Alleluia", the Latin equivalent of Hallelujah, is found in many of the Psalms and means "Praise the Lord." "Amen," of course, ends many prayers, and it simply means "truth," "assuredly," or "so be it."
Combining the praise of "Alleluia" with the jubilant assertion of "Amen" this hymn resounds with praise for Christ our King. Calling on Christians to sing praise both now and forevermore, it's a fitting hymn for children and adults alike.

1 comment:

Paula said...

Dear Ashley,
I enjoyed the beautiful hymn and the beautiful pictures! I also enjoyed reading about the hymn, thank you for sharing that!