by Joanne Wiklund
Sometimes we are reminded of how much music has influenced our life. Music ties us to people, places and events and prompts so many memories. I have long been curious how music comes to people. To write a song must be so rewarding, especially one like “How Great Thou Art.” Does anyone remember Carl Boberg, a Swedish poet and writer who wrote the Swedish poem “O Store Gud” that was changed to that well known hymn? According to Wikipedia, he was born August 16, 1850 and died January 17, 1940. The song was written as a psalm. Boberg was a carpenter’s son, had a stint as a sailor and was a lay minister who also edited a weekly Christian newspaper. He published the song in that paper.
So many musicians, singers and church members have sung that song and each rendition is a little different. But the changes to one’s heart when a person hears it can’t of course be measured. But I think it brings with it such a message of Peace. If there is anything we need this week with the Inauguration scheduled for Wednesday, it’s Peace. In our hearts, our homes, our country and the whole world. We know the Prince of Peace personally and He left His peace with us. He said so. He said, “My Peace I leave with you.” I believe it and as far as I’m concerned, that settles it.
Would I argue with someone about peace? No. Would I want the world to calm down and accept it from Him? Yes. But we are not in charge. Remember the song? “O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder… How great thou art!”
I find it interesting that I married a Swede. That song has been a strong voice in our world ever since.
Peace, people.
And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good. 2 Thessalonians 3:13
I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to protect what I have entrusted to Him until that day. Hold on to the example of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Protect, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. 2 Timothy 1:12b-14
How Great Thou Art was my Dad’s favorite song and he loved hearing my mom sing it and she could really belt it out.
Many men seemed to love Elvis’ rendition of it. That’s a good memory of your mom singing it to your Dad. Were they musicians?