Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Isaiah 9:6-7

For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and righteousness from this time onward and forevermore.

Did you know that some hymns found in Glory to God have the same title, but are set to different tunes? One Christmas carol that appears with different tunes is Away in a Manger. The tune named Mueller is perhaps the most familiar setting of this beloved carol. Seemingly, others have grown up singing Away in a Manger to the tune: Cradle Song. Both tunes are lovely, but I believe Mueller is the more familiar.

The Presbyterian Hymnal really threw people a curve when it had two settings of O Little Town of Bethlehem. Most people I believe think of this hymn as having only one setting: St. Louis. Singers are really caught off guard when the setting is the English folk melody, known as Forest Green. According to the hymnal the St. Louis tune (1868) predates the Forest Green tune (1906). If you have never heard or sung the hymn to the Forest Green tune, then I would encourage you to do so. Though not familiar, you might discover you like it too!

The Advent hymn, Come, Thou Long-expected Jesus, has two settings in Glory to God. I expect the tune STUTTGART is the more familiar, but I much prefer the other tune setting HYFRYDOL. The movement just soars as the words speak of Christ’s glory and the glory to which you and I will be raised. Verse 2 of Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

Born thy people to deliver, born a child and yet a king,
Born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom bring.
By thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone;
By thine all sufficient merit raise us to thy glorious throne.

Prayer

O God, there was a long wait before Jesus was born although prophets proclaimed His coming for years. It must have been hard waiting and now we wait for our King to return. Keep us mindful that Jesus will come, and we will be raised up to His glorious throne. What a day that will be! Thank You, Lord. Amen.