Friday, November 17, 2017

Traditional Hymns That Motivate People

By Cynthia West


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 word 'hymn' comes from the Greek and means a song of praise. Historians have found early songs from Greece and Egypt. Most western churches have collections of songs they use in their worship services. These collections are called hymnals and contain both words and music.

'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.

The story behind many of our best-loved hymns is as inspiring as the words themselves. 'Amazing Grace' was written by a former sailor and slave trader to describe his conversion and salvation experiences. John Newton became an Anglican minister and a formidable opponent of the British slave trade, which was abolished during his lifetime.

Those who love the traditional songs they heard as children and still appreciate have many resources today with the internet. YouTube has great renditions of songs like 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Talent shows sometimes have wonderful performances of old favorites. There are cable TV stations that play Gospel and traditional church songs, and radio shows that feature the 'Old Gold' of hymns. Church, for many, would seem barren without the chance to sing. People can visit Mennonite church sings and monasteries and convents for chants as old as the Catholic church.

A hymn can extol the majesty and worthiness of God, the love of Jesus, or the price the Lord paid for sinners of every tribe and nation. Children learn 'Jesus Loves Me' and 'This Little Light Of Mine'. "The Old Rugged Cross' and 'At The Cross' remind us of Jesus' last gift to mankind, and 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' celebrates the treasures of salvation.

Peace and joy are emotions that are perfect for expression in music. Personal experiences are another great subject, as shown in 'I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance'. Many lines of scripture or from the Psalms are found in hymns or even set to music arranged especially for 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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment