Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Daniel 4:3

How great are his signs, how mighty his wonders. His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom and his sovereignty is from generation to generation.

The Great Reformer, Martin Luther wrote this great hymn of the church. It is based on Psalm 46, but the truth affirmed by Daniel 4:3 alludes to the last three measures of the fourth stanza: “His kingdom is forever.” In nine more years, this hymn will have been sung in the church for 500 years. God’s truth abideth still. His kingdom is forever.

Long before I knew this music as a great hymn of the church, I recognized it as the musical introduction to a children’s television series sponsored by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The series was “Davy and Goliath,” a young boy and his talking dog, Goliath. The episode opened with the symbol of the church and four herald trumpets playing A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.

Prayer

Lord of the Church, we thank you for the great hymns that have become cherished favorites over the years. We thank you for those who write music and lyrics, for those who play instruments and all who sing and make a joyful noise to you. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.