Thursday, August 24, 2006

One of the neat aspects of Scripture is the prevalence of the inspired writers to include hymns/songs in their writings. From Paul's Christ hymn in Philippians 2.5-11 to the Psalms of David in the middle of the Old Testament, Scripture is filled with hymns that reflect the worship of God's people.

This morning, I was reading in Isaiah. In Isaiah 11, the prophet tells of the coming Messiah and his kingdom -- of how the kingdom to be established would bring justice to the world. The result of that prophecy? In Isaiah 12, two songs of praise break out in response to the promised inbreaking of the kingdom.

"In that day you will say: 'I will praise you, O LORD. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.'"

"In that day you will say: 'Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you'"
(Isaiah 12.1-2, 4-6).

What is your favorite hymn? Take a moment and share with us through the comments section your favorite hymn and why that hymn speaks most directly to your heart.