A hymn is a devotional song. We usually associate it with a song of praise to God, although it could be one of allegiance to a nation or even a cause. Hymns that motivate are often written for secular reasons, even though God may be invoked. Some of the most beloved songs in America were written to advance the Christian faith, both for believers and for outsiders that the Church wanted to invite in.
The very word, which comes from the Greek, means a song of praise. Early religious music of the ancients has been found; historians have recovered odes from the Greeks and devotional songs of Egypt. Most churches have collections of songs and music called hymnals that are used in worship services.
'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic' is a good example of a song written for secular purposes which has become a tradition in American churches. Julia Ward Howe wrote the lyrics during the Civil War and it was quickly adopted by the Union army and the people of the north. The tune was a familiar one to many, as was the 'Glory, Glory Hallelujah' chorus. This stirring song used to be taught in public schools and sung at patriotic gatherings.
'Amazing Grace', another beloved song, speaks of salvation from a state of wretchedness to one of 'saved by grace'. The story of this song is as inspirational as the words. John Newton, a sailor and later slave trader, cried out to God in desperation during a violent storm at sea. He became a clergyman and wrote this song to reinforce a sermon. The tune that Americans love was settled on later. Newton became an ardent abolitionist and helped to bring about the end of the slave trade in Britain.
The internet is a boon to those who love church music. YouTube has wonderful renditions of hymns like 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Cable TV has Gospel and Worship channels, and choirs and choral groups regularly appear on television. For many, church without singing would seem strange. Some Mennonite churches invite outsiders in to hear their musical evenings - outstanding - and monasteries and convents still practice the ancient chants.
Many measured songs of praise extol the majesty and worthiness of God. 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' and 'Jesus Loves Me' are about a savior we can approach like a father. 'At the Cross', 'The Old Rugged Cross', and numerous other descriptions of the sacrifice Jesus made for us remind us of what it cost God to keep us in His family.
Peace and joy are other aspects of the Christian life that are extolled in song. 'I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance' try to tell others of personal experiences with a personal God. Many churches put the Psalms to music and sing the biblical words back to the One who inspired them.
Everyone loves Christmas carols. Easter is marked with triumphant paeans of praise and exaltation. Thanksgiving and harvest time have special music, as do funerals and weddings. Hymns enrich our lives at all seasons, both of the year and of our lives.
The very word, which comes from the Greek, means a song of praise. Early religious music of the ancients has been found; historians have recovered odes from the Greeks and devotional songs of Egypt. Most churches have collections of songs and music called hymnals that are used in worship services.
'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic' is a good example of a song written for secular purposes which has become a tradition in American churches. Julia Ward Howe wrote the lyrics during the Civil War and it was quickly adopted by the Union army and the people of the north. The tune was a familiar one to many, as was the 'Glory, Glory Hallelujah' chorus. This stirring song used to be taught in public schools and sung at patriotic gatherings.
'Amazing Grace', another beloved song, speaks of salvation from a state of wretchedness to one of 'saved by grace'. The story of this song is as inspirational as the words. John Newton, a sailor and later slave trader, cried out to God in desperation during a violent storm at sea. He became a clergyman and wrote this song to reinforce a sermon. The tune that Americans love was settled on later. Newton became an ardent abolitionist and helped to bring about the end of the slave trade in Britain.
The internet is a boon to those who love church music. YouTube has wonderful renditions of hymns like 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Cable TV has Gospel and Worship channels, and choirs and choral groups regularly appear on television. For many, church without singing would seem strange. Some Mennonite churches invite outsiders in to hear their musical evenings - outstanding - and monasteries and convents still practice the ancient chants.
Many measured songs of praise extol the majesty and worthiness of God. 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' and 'Jesus Loves Me' are about a savior we can approach like a father. 'At the Cross', 'The Old Rugged Cross', and numerous other descriptions of the sacrifice Jesus made for us remind us of what it cost God to keep us in His family.
Peace and joy are other aspects of the Christian life that are extolled in song. 'I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance' try to tell others of personal experiences with a personal God. Many churches put the Psalms to music and sing the biblical words back to the One who inspired them.
Everyone loves Christmas carols. Easter is marked with triumphant paeans of praise and exaltation. Thanksgiving and harvest time have special music, as do funerals and weddings. Hymns enrich our lives at all seasons, both of the year and of our lives.
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