Episode #500
Hymn 363 - To Our Redeemer's Glorious Name
The hymn that we are studying this weekend is hymn 363 in The Lutheran Hymnal. This hymn is unique in a couple of ways. First, it was written by a female hymnwriter, and second it was written by a Baptist hymnwriter. When we compare this hymn to a hymn by Paul Gerhardt or Martin Luther, we will find some very striking differences. This hymn will reflect a fervent faith in Jesus, and a devotion to Him. But it will communicate this in a more emotional simple way that is reflective of a more feminine style. This hymn does not carry the rigid or instructional character of a typical Lutheran hymn. The hymn beautifully points to the theme of Love. God's Love for us in Jesus and His work of salvation. It also points to the Christian's Spirit-worked response to that Love of God in our lives. We are awaked to sing "the sacred song." Our "hearts and tongues" are tuned to sing His praise. The prayer is that the whole world of sinners would be brought to "join the sacred song." Yes, "God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8), and "we love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19) Thanks be to God for the love He has shown us in Jesus. May that knowledge of His love tune our heart to sing of our Redeemer's glorious name to the world around us!
