Just heard a clip on Pick of the Week on BBC Radio 4 of a member of the Filey Fisherman’s Choir talking about how important the words of some of the hymns they sing are to him. If you click on the link above in the next few days you’ll be able to hear it on Listen Again. The hymn he was discussing was ‘Jesus Saviour Pilot Me’ and in particular he sang the last verse,
When at last I reach the shore,
And the fearful breakers roar,
Twixt me and the peaceful rest,
Then when leaning on Thy breast,
May I hear Thee say to me,
Fear not, I will pilot thee.
The old fisherman said, “I’m not ashamed to say it, I’ve often said those words as I approached the shore”. It clearly meant a great deal to him.
It made me think about how many of these old hymns are known and loved by people, even by those who have long since stopped attending any place of worship and yet how few people really stop to think about the words.
The local church I attend goes into a number of care homes for the elderly in our locality. I am repeatedly struck by how many of the hymns we sing with the old people are still well remembered – even by those who are suffering from dementia.
Even in our secular, irreligious age this country has a privileged heritage. Have a think about some of the hymns you know:
Jesus Saviour Pilot Me – Do you know Him as the Pilot for your life?
The Lord’s My Shepherd – Is the Lord really your Shepherd?
Will Your Anchor Hold? – Do you have an anchor that keeps your soul sure and steadfast?
These old hymns have captured the fundamental truths of the Gospel message. Think about them and come to know the Saviour who inspired those who wrote them.
“He has put a new song in my mouth
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the LORD” Psalm 40 vs3