“This Is My Father’s World,” ELW 824 and LBW 554
1 This is my Father’s world, and to my list’ning ears
all nature sings, and round me rings
the music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world;
I rest me in the thought of rocks and trees,
of skies and seas; his hand the wonders wrought.
2 This is my Father’s world; the birds their carols raise;
the morning light, the lily white,
declare their maker’s praise.
This is my Father’s world; he shines in all that’s fair.
In the rustling grass I hear him pass;
he speaks to me ev’rywhere.
3 This is my Father’s world; oh, let me not forget that,
Though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world; why should my heart be sad?
The lord is king, let heaven’ ring;
God reigns, let earth be glad!
Devotion
I recently attended an event where this well-known hymn was played, not with organ or piano, but with three guitars and a set of drums. I must admit, I found it refreshing. Not that it can’t be beautifully played in a more traditional manner – it certainly can. But the different style helped me to pay more attention to the very meaningful words.
The last verse brought special blessing to me. In the midst of our discouraging times in ministry and our despair about world events, it is important for us to be mindful that the world is still in the hands of the eternal God. Let’s not forget that “though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.” Let us embrace our callings, not with a sad heart, but with a heart of gladness and a spirit of praise.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for this beautiful hymn. May the music and words encourage and inspire us in whatever calling you have given us. Amen.