Devotional Thoughts Based on the Glory to God Hymnal

Matthew 14:25

And early in the morning He came walking toward them on the sea.

I have never visited the Holy Land. The time I regret not having gone was with a group of students and seminary professors in the mid 1980s. From all reports, my colleagues had a great time and learned so much in 3 weeks as compared to 7-10-day trips. I was curious to know what they considered was the most unforgettable site. I expected most to say Bethlehem or Jerusalem. Instead of these sites, significantly altered by commercialism and tourism, my friends said their favorite spot was the Sea of Galilee! That site seemed less tainted by tourism and would more resemble the Sea of Galilee by which Jesus walked and upon which Jesus walked. This hymn helps us get in touch with places where Jesus walked. Matthew 14:25 is alluded to in this hymn.

O sing a song of Bethlehem, of shepherds watching there, and of the news that came to them from angels in the air. The light that shone in Bethlehem, fills all the world today, of Jesus birth and peace on earth, the angels sing always.

O sing a song of Galilee, of lake and woods and hills, of Him who walked upon the sea, and bade its waves be still. For though like waves on Galilee, dark seas of trouble roll, when faith has heard the Master’s word, falls peace upon the soul.

The Glory to God commentator has noted: “This hymn created by a noted Presbyterian Hymnal editor and scholar, employs place names and sensory images (light, fragrance, wind) to sketch the events of Christ’s life.”

Prayer

O Lord, more than the sites we might see, help us to sense Your presence as we imagine walking hand in hand with You, as we walk where You lead us these days. In his name we pray. Amen.