I was very moved while singing this hymn at church today. I so appreciate the way the Spirit can teach and motivate through music. This hymn's text is attributed to Bernard of Clairvaux, ca. 1091-1153. I wonder what he was like and what motivated him penning these inspiring words. Music is by John B. Dykes, 1823-1876. Hope you enjoy.
"JESUS, THE VERY THOUGHT OF THEE"
Jesus, the very thought of thee With sweetness fills my breast;
But sweeter far thy face to see And in thy presence rest.
Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame, Nor can the mem'ry find
A sweeter sound than thy blest name, O Savior of mankind!
O hope of ev'ry contrite heart, O joy of all the meek,
To those who fall, how kind thou art! How good to those who seek!
Jesus, our only joy be thou, As thou our prize wilt be;
Jesus, be thou our glory now, And thru eternity.
I want to concentrate on making my Savior, Jesus Christ my joy and my prize. I think if I can do that better, all else will fall in order.
