Sunday, September 21, 2008

"Thy Strong Word"

I know this melody as "O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus," text by Samuel T. Francis, music by Thomas J. Williams (1869-1944). The melody pops up again in this hymn with words written by Martin H. Franzman (1907-1976).

Thy Strong Word

Thy strong word did cleave the darkness; at thy speaking it was done;
For created light we thank thee, while thine ordered seasons run.
Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!

Lo, on those who dwelt in darkness, dark as night and deep as death,
Broke the light of thy salvation, breathed thine own lifegiving breath.
Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!

Thy strong word bespeaks us righteous; bright with thine own holiness,
Glorious now, we press toward glory, and our lives our hopes confess.
Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!

God the Father, Light Creator, to thee laud and honor be;
To thee, Light of Light begotten, praise be sung eternally.
Holy Spirit, Light Revealer, glory, glory be to thee;
Mortals, angels, now and ever praise the Holy Trinity.

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