MamaArcher's Blog

May Jesus Christ Be Praised!

Psalm 34:1
I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

One of the important sources of English hymnody is the wealth of worthy hymns translated from earlier Greek, Latin, and German sources during the mid 19th century. Many English writers’ interest in the hymns from these other cultures was largely a part of a movement within the Anglican church known as the Oxford Movement. The rediscovery of earlier and ancient hymns became especially important during this time. One of the leaders of this movement was Edward Caswall, a well known scholar, minister, and translator. Throughout his life Caswall kept adding verses until this particular hymn eventually it included 28 stanzas.
These words still have an important place in our church services as they direct our attention to the basic purpose of all worship.
(source: Amazing Grace by Kenneth W. Osbeck)

When morning gilds the skies my heart awaking cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work and prayer, to Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Does sadness fill my mind? A solace here I find,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Or fades my earthly bliss? My comfort still is this,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
In Heav’n’s eternal bliss the loveliest strain is this,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The pow’rs of darkness fear when this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this, while life is mine, my canticle divine;
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this th’ eternal song thru all the ages long:
May Jesus Christ be praised!