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SPECIAL FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

For our favourite hymn feature we are delighted to welcome Roy Wightman as our guest contributor today. Roy lives in Luton, Bedfordshire in England.

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FAVOURITE MUSIC
06 Intro Favourite music
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The contributor today to the favourite music feature is
Jean Brockbank-Smith
who lives in Luton in the UK.


Jean has chosen two pieces. First is the song, "O what a wonderful day" written by John W. Peterson who had a major influence on evangelical Christian music in the 1950s through the 1970s.

The second piece of music is Cavalleria Rusticana an opera in one act by Pietro Mascagni to an Italian libretto by Targioni-Tozzetti and Guido Menasci adapted from a play and short story written by Giovanni Verga. It premiered on 17 May 1890, in Rome. Jean has chosen this Intermezzo simply because it is a piece of music which touches her soul. And what better reason could there be to choose it!

In Jean’s own words about her choices she says,
"I imagine that I was regarded as a "cradle Christian" as through the influence of my Godly parents and Sunday school I never knew a time when I was not aware of the love of Jesus. However when I was a teenager I realised that there was sin in my life and at a ‘Youth for Christ’ rally I felt the need to publicly declare my need of a Saviour. The result was just as this song describes-I felt literally transported to the gates of heaven and touched with the glory of God. I knew as never before that my sins were forgiven by Jesus on the cross, that I was covered by the love at Calvary and that beyond this life was the promise of heaven.

The lively tune of this song plus its correct theology makes it a joy to sing. However none of us can live solely on the "mountain tops" and I too have had to tread the valleys-in my case bereavement and illness. But Jesus has always been “my tender compassionate friend”, who “turns my darkness into light" leaving me wanting to love him more and serve him better.

Thank you Lord that that "wonderful, wonderful day" exists for me and for all who believe.

HEAVEN CAME DOWN
07 Heaven came down
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1. O what a wonderful, wonderful day,
Day I will never forget!
After I'd wandered in darkness away,
Jesus my Saviour I met!
O what a tender, compassionate friend,
He met the need of my heart!
Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling,
He made all the darkness depart.

Chorus Heaven came down and Glory filled my soul,
When at the cross the Saviour made me whole;
My sins were washed away,
And my night was turned to day,
Heaven came down and Glory filled my soul.

2. Born of the Spirit with life from above
Into God's family divine,
Justified fully through Calvary's love,
O what a standing is mine!
And the transaction so quickly was made
When as a sinner I came,
Took of the offer of grace he did proffer,
He saved me, O praise his dear name!

3. Now I've a hope that will surely endure
After the passing of time,
I have a future in Heaven for sure,
There in those mansions sublime.
And it's because of that wonderful day,
When at the cross I believed;
Riches eternal and blessings supernal
From his precious hand I received.

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA
08 Cavalleria Rusticana
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FAVOURITE HYMN Choice: I SERVE A RISEN SAVIOUR 09 Intro fav hymn To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)
Our contributor today is Kylie Heath who lives in Essex in the UK. Kylie is an Occupational Therapist by profession and holds honours degrees in Science and Theology. She is mum to three lovely children. Kylie has chosen this particular hymn because she says it was the first hymn she can remember as a child-even to remembering it was number 27 in the hymn book! It’s a hymn, she says, which has remained a favourite throughout the years, the more so since it contains a truth that she has come to rely on in adult life that the Saviour she serves is indeed alive today.
Modesty prevents me from saying who her father is but he’s exceptionally proud of her!
Music: 10 I serve a risen Saviour
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1. I serve a risen Saviour,
He's in the world today;
I know that he is living,
Whatever men may say;
I see his hand of mercy,
I hear his voice of cheer,
And just the time I need him
He's always near.

Chorus
He lives, he lives,
Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me and talks with me
Along life's narrow way.
He lives, he lives,
Salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know he lives?
He lives within my heart!

2.
In all the world around me
I see his loving care;
And though my heart grows weary,
I never will despair;
I know that he is leading
Through all the stormy blast;
The day of his appearing
Will come at last.

3.
Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian,
Lift up your voice and sing
Eternal hallelujahs
To Jesus Christ the King;
The hope of all who seek him,
The help of all who find;
None other is so loving.
So good and kind.

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FAVOURITE MUSIC
13 Intro fav music
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Today's contributor is David Smith
who lives in Sittingbourne in the United Kingdom.


David is actually my next door neighbour and I'm so glad he is. He and his wife Theresa are such a blessing to us. David introduced me to a song he learned in Sunday school. I've never heard it and I wonder if you have! I share ‘A Cowboy for Jesus’ with you. And following that, a hymn which Dave tells me that when he first heard Nana Mouskouri singing Amazing Grace many years ago it moved him to tears and it's remained a meaningful experience whenever he hears it these days. Such is the effect of the emotive words of this hymn and it is Nana Mouskouri we hear singing the hymn today.

Thank you Dave for sharing with us and for all the blessings we receive from you.

COWBOY CHRISTIAN

A Cowboy For Jesus
14 A Christian Cowboy
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 1
 I'm just a little fellow, but I always want to be,
a cowboy sticking close to the Man of Galilee.
I want to do some roping of the souls who are in sin,
and keep them all for Jesus in the Holy Ghost Corral.

 2
 I haven't got much talent, and I ain't too smart you see.
But I can still love Jesus and He can still love me.
As pardners, all I want to do is satisfy my Boss.
And be the bestest Christian boy (girl) that ever rode a hoss.
 
Chorus
 I'll be a cowboy, a Christian cowboy, I'll work for Jesus all my days.
And on the prairie or in the city, I'll help to round up all the strays!

AMAZING GRACE

15 Amazing grace
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1
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now I’m found,
Was blind, but now I see.

2
‘T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

3
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Twas Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

4
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now I’m found,
Was blind, but now I see.


FAVOURITE MUSIC
00 Favourite music
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Our contributor to this feature in our service today is DAVID HARRISON who lives in Hadleigh in the UK. David has chosen the brass band Tone Poem, THE KINGDOM TRIUMPHANT composed by Eric Ball, because he says when he first heard it in the 1960s he fell in love with it and it’s been a favourite piece ever since. Those who hear it will readily agree with David when he says he finds the piece very emotional because the message of the music is a reminder of the second coming of Christ. Three tunes are used ‘The Blast of the trumpet’ reminding us of the judgement, ‘O Come o come Immanuel’, remembering the coming of Jesus at Bethlehem and the second coming of Christ is heralded by ‘Lo he comes with clouds descending’. It’s a stirring piece of brass band writing and one which reminds us of the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom.

Interestingly David himself is the soprano player on this recording.

David and his wife Audrey live in Hadleigh, Essex in the UK and are Salvationists.

And perhaps we could say a prayer for David as we listen to this piece of music because he is suffering greatly from arthritis.

MUSIC: THE KINGDOM TRIUMPHANT
07 The Kingdom Triumphant
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FAVOURITE HYMN
11 Favourite hymn
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Jean Wright from Grimsby UK has chosen, ‘COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS’ as a favourite hymn.

Jean says: ‘My favourite hymn right now is "Count your blessings" as God has given me so much. I felt the Holy Spirit in my heart during all my cancer treatment and the Lord lifted me up to cope with my husband John being promoted to Glory and blessed me with a beautiful family and my Salvation Army family and friends. What more can I ask for? ‘

HYMN: COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Music: 12 Count your blessings
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Introduction: 15 Peter Cooke
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Our first contributor is Peter Cooke.


The hymn he has chosen was written in
1947 in New Zealand, by Albert Orsborn,
the sixth General of The Salvation Army.
The words were inspired by seeing and
drinking healing waters springing from a hillside.

Peter says,
’ A favourite song or hymn of mine is found in The Salvation Army Song Book, number 647, and in particular the second verse:
 
Wash from my hands the dust of earthly striving;
Take from my mind the stress of secret fear;
Cleanse thou the wounds from all but thee far hidden,
And when the waters flow let my healing appear.
 
I have often used it in private prayer, and in public prayer as well, enlarging on the first three lines as mood dictates -- ie we could think at the moment of 'the dust of earthly striving' in the light of the Rupert Murdoch scandal; 'the stress of secret fear' might pertain to possible redundancy in the light of national government and local government cuts; 'the wounds from all but thee far hidden are perhaps things too sensitive to share with a congregation and are known only to the pray-er and to God. For each of these we can claim healing 'when the waters flow'.

1.
When shall I come unto the healing waters?
Lifting my heart, I cry to thee my prayer.
Spirit of peace, my Comforter and healer,
In whom my springs are found, let my soul meet thee
there.

Chorus
From a hill I know,
Healing waters, flow:
O rise, Immanuel's tide,
And my soul overflow!

2.
Wash from my hands the dust of earthly striving;
Take from my mind the stress of secret fear;
Cleanse thou the wounds from all but thee far hidden.
And when the waters flow let my healing appear.

3.
Light, life and love are in that healing fountain,
All I require to cleanse me and restore;
Flow through my soul, redeem its desert places,
And make a garden there for the Lord I adore.
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MY FAVOURITE HYMN:
Introduction: 00 Intro Gillian
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GILLIAN FOSSEY

who lives in Northern Ireland.
Her choice is: ‘It is well with my soul.’
The words are by Horatio Spafford and the music by Philip Bliss. This hymn was written after two major traumas in Spafford’s life. The first was the great Chicago Fire of October 1871, which ruined him financially (he had been a wealthy businessman). Shortly after, while crossing the Atlantic, all four of Spafford’s daughters died in a collision with another ship. Spafford’s wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, “Saved alone.” Several weeks later, as Spafford’s own ship passed near the spot where his daughters died, the Holy Spirit inspired him to write these words.

In Gillian’s own words:
The song "It is Well with My Soul" became a tremendous help and encouragement to me when my brother Gavin fell from a school roof at 15 years old. As a family we were traumatized at the news and what the outcome could be. In that intensive care ward with all the machines and noises around us, for me came a peace in my soul. Everyday there was a chink of light that all would be well. My God’s still small voice speaking to me.

My spiritual experience became much stronger and I knew that as the song says "What ever my lot Thou hast taught me to say, It is Well, It is Well with my Soul"

Three weeks into Gavin’s hospital stay our Mum died very suddenly and the Lord came very near to us. I drew on God’s strength even more and, yes," It was still well with my soul".

I have, like many others, came through lots of moments of life tragedies- but not on my own. Jesus has been my constant guide and friend. I would just like to leave a line from another song that has become a really precious reminder to me of just what Jesus has done for me.

The song is" King of Kings" the line is "In Royal Robes, I don't deserve, I live to serve your Majesty".
I strive daily to do so and hope theses words may encourage and comfort those who read them. 

Music:1-03 It Is Well With My Soul

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HYMN: It is well with my soul.

1
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to know,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

2
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Refrain

3
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Refrain

Thank you, Gillian for sharing your thoughts.


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MY FAVOURITE HYMN




GRAHAM and BARBARA HATTON who live in Chatham, England.

08 My fav hymn Barbara
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BARBARA’S CHOICE

"I stand amazed in the presence..."

 Barbara says, ‘that when I was in the Garden of Gethsemane and Malcolm had prayed with me, I felt God's presence at a time  when I could  not see an end to the circumstances which had happened in my life.’
My other favourites are: "Be still for the presence of the Lord is here.." Every time I sing this song I feel God's presence with me and the words remind me of how powerful God is and that nothing is too hard for Him.

Also "All people that on earth do dwell."

 These words remind me that we are to praise Him for His everlasting love and care for us, and that He is an Almighty God.
From the three hymns we have chosen the first one. 


HYMN: I STAND AMAZED
Introduction: Words and Music: Charles Gabriel. Growing up on an Iowa farm, Gabriel taught himself to play the family’s reed organ. He became well known as a teacher and composer. He served as music director at Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, San Francisco, California (1890-2), then moved to Chicago, Illinois. He edited some 43 song books, 7 men’s chorus books, 19 anthem collections, and 23 cantatas. Music:

Music:09 I stand amazed
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1
I stand amazed in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene,
And wonder how He could love me,
A sinner, condemned, unclean.

Refrain
O how marvellous! O how wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
O how marvellous! O how wonderful!
Is my Saviour’s love for me!

2
For me it was in the garden
He prayed: “Not My will, but Thine.”
He had no tears for His own griefs,
But sweat drops of blood for mine.

3
He took my sins and my sorrows,
He made them His very own;
He bore the burden to Calvary,
And suffered and died alone.

4
When with the ransomed in glory
His face I at last shall see,
’Twill be my joy through the ages
To sing of His love for me.


GRAHAM’S CHOICE

10 Fav hymn Graham
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"A wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord"

 These words increase my faith in God for the many unseen blessings I receive.

 Another favourite is "Lead kindly light.." I am reminded that God will always be faithful to me even when I have chosen to go my own way. (This hymn had already been chosen for today’s service.)

 Also " And can it be..." Verse 3 in particular gives me a sense of the dramatic change which occurs when God enters our hearts.

 And " He giveth more grace..." This song reminds me that no matter how difficult life's circumstances are, they are never beyond the power of God who always gives us sufficient grace and strength to cope.
 " He leadeth me.." These words help me to focus on the fact that God always shows an interest in me, whatever I do or wherever I am.  He is always willing to be my guide and knowing that is a great source of strength in my many times of trouble.

We have chosen the first of Graham’s favourite hymns:

Introduction:
Words: Fanny Crosby was probably the most prolific hymnist in history. Though blinded by an incompetent doctor at six weeks of age, she wrote over 8,000 hymns. About her blindness, she said:
It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.
In her lifetime, Fanny Crosby was one of the best known women in the United States. To this day, the vast majority of American hymnals contain her work.

When Fanny died, her tombstone carried the words, “Aunt Fanny” and “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine. Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine.”

Music: William Kirkpatrick. Son of a school teacher and musician, Kirkpatrick grew up in a musical atmosphere. In 1854, he went to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to study music and learn a trade; he spent over three years as a carpenter. But he was more interested in music than mechanics, devoting all his leisure time to its study. His ambition at the time was to become a violinist.

In 1855, Kirkpatrick joined the Wharton Street Methodist As there were few church organs in that day, his violin and cello were in constant demand for choir rehearsals, singing societies, and church programs. During this time he wrote a number of unpublished hymn tunes and anthems.


Music: 11 A wonderful Saviour
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1
A wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord,
A wonderful Saviour to me;
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,
Where rivers of pleasure I see.

Refrain
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock
That shadows a dry, thirsty land;
He hideth my life with the depths of His love,
And covers me there with His hand,
And covers me there with His hand.

2
A wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord,
He taketh my burden away;
He holdeth me up, and I shall not be moved,
He giveth me strength as my day.

3
With numberless blessings each moment He crowns,
And filled with His fullness divine,
I sing in my rapture, oh, glory to God
For such a Redeemer as mine!

4
When clothed in His brightness, transported I rise
To meet Him in clouds of the sky,
His perfect salvation, His wonderful love
I’ll shout with the millions on high.
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BOTH BERNARD COOK AND ANDREW BLYTH HAVE CHOSEN THIS THE HYMN ‘HE GIVETH MORE GRACE’ AS THEIR FAVOURITE.

HE GIVETH MORE GRACE
04 Fav hymn
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(Others have included it in a list of their favourites, too. Graham Hatton,-featured 21st August- and Cynthia Oxley-due to be featured soon)

BERNARD COOK

‘As a human being I face, like everyone else in life, difficulties, failures and disappointments, and as a Christian I still have to face and deal with those difficulties, failures and disappointments. Belonging to Christ and following His way of life doesn’t immune me from the world in which I live in fact it seems that the closer I ‘walk with God’ the more the devil tries to get at me. Time and time again throughout my life ‘when trials and temptations beset us’ I turn again to those words of this song, ‘He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater’ or ‘when we have exhausted our store of endurance’. I have found without question that ‘his love has no limits, his grace no measure, his power no boundary known unto man; for out of his infinite riches in Jesus he giveth, and giveth, and giveth again’. Dear reader, allow the love of God to enfold you and whatever the circumstances, ‘Take it to the Lord in Prayer’.’


ANDREW BLYTH


‘I don't believe you would have enough disk space to feature all of my favourite songs.  

Most Sundays I am always challenged by a line of a verse or uplifted by a soaring melodic interval in a tune.  I do, however, have a couple of songs that have been part of my life's journey and have brought me inspiration and comfort whenever I have sung them.

He giveth more grace (Salvation Army Song Book 579 to the tune 'Blacklands' SATB 591 A tremendous song of strength.  For me the third verse gives my spirit  a real uplift.  It reminds me of the Howard Davies Song 'The wonder of his grace'.  We do not, and need not know, how limitless his grace is.  We just have to trust and believe in the assurance of his love, grace and power.  I pray for more grace that I may express God's divine attributes in my own human virtues...that is a prayer that I constantly make even though many times I fail.  With Lt. Colonel Ray Steadman-Allen's powerful tune 'Blacklands' the music and lyrics fit so well that it never fails to move me.

I know a fount (Salvation Army Song Book 257 to the tune 'I know a fount' SATB 545 It is not often that you can say you felt a strong sense of God's presence on the M25! This song became a source of strength to me whilst driving to Enfield Citadel one February morning.  I had a recording of a setting of Oliver Cooke's song on the CD and the words just moved me to tears....so much so I had to find the hard shoulder very quickly!  Verse four 'Wondrous Deliver! Sin-forgiving Saviour! Cleanser of hearts! Unfailing friend and guide!  No one has ever trusted unavailing, No one has claimed of his love and been denied.  Wow!  He still loved me despite all that life was throwing up at me during that time.  I cling to that promise as much today as I did on that February morning and thank God that he continues to take me to the place of hope and strength where he simply says 'I love you, do my will in your life and be blessed.'

Just as a foot note - as a composer I am always interested in the composers and the melodies. Both 'Blacklands' and 'I know a fount' where composed by Salvationists, both were written during the afternoon Praise and Salvation Meetings for the purpose to use during the subsequent service.   If only I had the gift to write such beautiful melodies in such a short space of time!’
Music05 He giveth more grace
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1. He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase
To added afflictions he addeth his mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.

2.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father's full giving is only begun.

3.
His love has no limits, his grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of his infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

AND NOW THE VOCAL SOLO TO WHICH ANDREW REFERRED:

VOCAL SOLO: I know a fount
(Soloist Marjory Watson)
06 I know a fount
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FAVOURITE HYMN
Our contributor today is TERESA HILL
who lives in Maltby, Yorkshire, England.
04 Intro fav hymn
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Her chosen hymn is : I watch the sunrise lighting the sky.

Teresa says,
“I would like the hymn,  ‘I watch the sunrise’ because my husband, David, is not well at all now and it is his favourite hymn” 

I watch the sunrise lighting the sky,
Casting its shadows near.
And on this morning bright though it be,
I feel those shadows near me.

But you are always close to me
Following all my ways.
May I be always close to you
Following all your ways, Lord.

I watch the sunlight shine through the clouds,
Warming the earth below.
And at the mid-day, life seems to say:
ÒI feel your brightness near me.
For you are always . . .

I watch the sunset fading away,
Lighting the clouds with sleep.
And as the evening closes its eyes,
I feel your presence near me.
For you are always . . .

I watch the moonlight guarding the night,
Waiting till morning comes.
The air is silent, earth is at rest
Only your peace is near me.
Yes, you are always…

===========================================

DAVID WADE

Introduction: 04 Intro fav hymn
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Our contributor this week is DAVID WADE

‘At our enrolment as soldiers of The Salvation Army, my wife, Lynn and I were asked if we would like a couple of favourite hymns. We chose ‘Standing on the promises’ and ‘O Happy Day’ two songs we had at our wedding. This year we happily celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary. We have striven to be true to our promises in marriage and to those we made in the enrolment ceremony which led to our commissioning as Salvation Army officers.’


Music: 05 Standing on the promises
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Refrain:
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God

1
Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring,
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

2
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.

3
Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
Listening every moment to the Spirit’s call
Resting in my Saviour as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain



Introduction: O happy day
06 Intro O happy day
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And as an extra for David and his wife, Lynn
Here’s a band playing ‘O Happy Day’
Enjoy your celebrations David and Lynn!

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MALCOLM MARDLE

06 Intro fav Hymn
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This week our contributor is
MALCOLM MARDLE who lives in Harlington,

Bedfordshire in England.
These are Malcolm’s own words:

1954 was a year that changed the family life I shared with Mum and Dad Garrett and Cliff, in our little home in Beverley Road, Luton. Clifford Garrett, my foster brother, heard a message, sung by The Luton Citadel Songster Brigade. During that Sunday evening’s rendering in The Citadel, Alma Street,

CLIFF GARRETT

Cliff finally made his life changing decision to enter the Work of The Salvation Army as a full-time officer. The song is ‘I Would Be Thy Holy Temple’ by Brindley Boon, (song No. 786 in The Song Book of the Salvation Army) to the beautiful tune ‘Showers of blessing’ by James McGranahan. The words of the chorus of the song that made such an impact on Cliff are:

Take thou my life, Lord,
In deep submission I pray,
My all to thee dedicating,
Accept my offering today.

Each time I hear those wonderful words and melody, my whole being is transported back to that Sunday evening gathering at the old Luton Citadel, all those years ago,

It was a message that Cliff had listened to for nearly ten years, but had not felt able to respond to, since arriving home after fighting in World War 2. Along with so many other Christians, Cliff, an eighteen-year-old life-long Salvationist, was called up as a conscript, to defend his country. He even recalled to us how remarkably, during all the confusion of battle, he met up with Ken Noble, a fellow Salvationist at Luton Citadel. On his return from the war he told us of his prayer made during the battle of Monte Cassino, when he was wounded, that if God chose he should be spared, he would dedicate his life to full-time service in The Salvation Army.

So Cliff gave up his invaluable work as the local officer in charge of Luton Citadel’s Young People’s Corps, numbering over 200 including myself. Sadly for us at 39 Beverley Road, he also broke off his engagement to Sybil, who although a fellow Salvationist, could not share in his conviction to enter the ‘Work’. I will never forget the tears that flowed in our home when Sybil next visited. Cliff was never to marry.

So in 1954 Cliff entered The Salvation Army International Training College, (‘Soulwinners Session’). I even remember Cliff bringing John Gowans to our home. John of course went on to become the sixteenth General of the Salvation Army.

Life as an officer was at times very hard for Cliff, particularly at his first corps in Aberdare. They did not have a hall of their own at that time, but used the Toc H hall for Sunday services. I vividly remember helping him on a Sunday morning, as they prepared for their usual Army service, by opening all the windows and clearing away empty bottles etc. following Toc H’s Saturday evening entertainments.

Although sorely tested, Cliff faithfully stood by his vows until he was ‘Promoted to Glory’ on December 21st 2002, fulfilling the words of my special song’s final verse

O for heart of compassion,
Moved at the impulse of love,
Lost ones to bring to thy footstool,
Thy gracious riches to prove!

HYMN:
07 I would be
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1. I would be thy holy temple, Sacred and indwelt by thee; Naught then could stain my commission, 'Tis thy divine charge to me. Chorus Take thou my life, Lord, In deep submission I pray, My all to thee dedicating, Accept my offering today. Take thou my life, Lord, I pray; Take thou my life, Lord, I pray; My all to thee dedicating, Accept my offering today. 2. Seeking to mirror thy glory, Living to answer thy call, Each faithful vow now renewing, Gladly I yield thee my all. 3. Time, health and talents presenting, All that I have shall be thine; Heart mind and will consecrating, No longer shall they be mine. 4. O for a heart of compassion, Moved at the impulse of love, Lost ones to bring to thy footstool, Thy gracious riches to prove! ============================================= Our contributor is KENDOL BACCHUS


who lives in Kingstown, St.Vincent & the Grenadines

His choice is
‘Day by Day’
Lyrics: Karolina Wilhelmina Sandell Berg Music: Oscar Ahnfelt

‘Day by Day was written by a young Swedish woman who learned early in life the all-important lesson of living each day with the conscious presence and strength of her Lord. Lina Sandell has often been called the “Fanny Crosby of Sweden” for her many contributions influenced the waves of revival that swept the Scandinavian countries during the latter half of the nineteenth century.

Kendol’s own words are:
“Today as I worshipped at my church as I am accustomed to do on Sabbaths, I sensed in a very real way how soon Christ’s return is. I know for a fact that this is what all the signs and wonders in the natural world and moral decline is pointing to.  I think of Jesus blotting out my sins in the Heavenly Sanctuary and involved in His work of not just judgment, but as my High Priest and Redeemer atoning for my sins and covering me with His righteousness. This hymn expressed my dreams of being in heaven with my Saviour and encourages me on my walk with Christ to persevere and endure.”

Strength I find, to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for fear.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what He deems best
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,
He whose Name is Counsellor and Pow'r;
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid;
"As your days, your strength shall be in measure,”
This the pledge to me He made.

So to trust Your promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith's sweet consolation
Offered me within Your holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E'er to take, as from a father's hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till I reach the promised land.
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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

Introduction:00 Fav hymn
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Our contributor this week is
RUTH KILIAN


who lives in Kent in England.
Her choice is
‘Limitless Grace.’
Words by John Gowans. Music by Andrew Blyth

Ruth’s own words are few but meaningful:
“Although not entirely able to give the full reason why - The words have been a great help and comfort over recent months and, when joined by the music, they seem as if they are just 'meant to be'.  Certainly God-given gifts for both composer and poet.”

SONG: Limitless Grace
1-16 Limitless Grace
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You’re my resource, my stream of strength
When my own strength is gone.
You can refresh, revive, renew;
You are the only one!
When darkness falls, when I cannot see the way You want,
Your will for me,
All is made clear and darkness ends
As grace, limitless, descends.

Grace upon grace You have in store!
Lord of all grace, I ask for more.
Graceful to be in all I do,
Graceful my Lord, like You, like You!
Ev’ry new day shall I implore
Limitless grace from Your full store.

Grace to be wise when I could weep,
All of my patience spent;
Grace to go on, and not give in,
Send as You’ve always sent.
Grace to refuse, repel the wrong,
Grace to resist, be brave, be strong.
Where I must fight I’ll not despair,
For grace, limitless, is there.

Grace to forgive, grace to forget;
Who dares to throw the stone?
Grace to endure man’s pettiness;
Grace to forgive my own!
From all pretence by grace set free,
Made me the one I’m thought to be.
To be like You in word and deed,
Your grace, limitless, I need.

Grace upon grace You have in store!...
Limitless grace, from your full store.
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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE
14 Intro Fav hymn
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Our contributor this week is
ALLAN NUTTER
who lives in Australia.

It was March 1942 I was in the RAF. I was married on the 7th March and on the 12th returned to my unit. I didn’t see my wife again till April 1945.
 
I was posted overseas and found myself on a troop ship near Gourock waiting for a convoy. It was Easter Sunday morning 1942 and, from another ship came the singing “Up from the grave He arose”. I prayed that Sunday morning that God would keep me safe and I would return to my home and wife. God answered my prayer. 
 
We sailed, destination unknown, and after a number of days we arrived in Capetown  S.A. early in April. We found out that we had been bound for the far east but Singapore had fallen and we spent three weeks in Capetown. (1st answer to my prayer) During my stay in S.A. I met up with a few more Salvationists.
 
The time came for us to board another troopship destination unknown. The Salvationists arranged to meet on deck in the evenings. The first evening came and we chatted then we began to sing choruses and songs more servicemen joined us and it became a regular thing. We gave our testimonies and we were getting huge crowds. One evening I was asked if I would sing a solo and there & then sang The Old Rugged Cross. The men joined in at the chorus. What a great sound.    “ I will cling to the Old Rugged Cross and exchange it someday for a crown”
 
I arrived in Blackpool on 1st April 1945 and a few days later arrived home. God answered my prayer.
 
May I add that my wife who is 92 and myself 90 do hotel ministry two nights a week.
And here is the other hymn , Low in the grave, to which Allan refers.
Thank you Allan for your interesting contribution to the feature. May God continue to bless you in your ministry.
First of all then, ‘The Old Rugged Cross’ and then ‘Low in the grave he lay.’


THE OLD RUGGED CROSS
15 On a hill
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LOW IN THE GRAVE


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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE:

09 Favourite hymn
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ADRIAN TORRANS
Who lives in Northern Ireland
Great is Thy faithfulness.

 Adrian says:
‘I love the words from Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Life isn’t always a breeze, in fact far from it. Jesus Himself tells us that in this world we will have trouble, but reminds us that we take heart, for He has overcome the world.
 
The promise that because of His great love for us – even though we don’t deserve it – we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. When I sing ‘strength for today’, the next line just lifts my spirit to soar like an eagle – ‘and bright hope for tomorrow’. In times of difficulty, like now for me personally, with a battle with chronic neuropathic pain, this song and the amazing words taken from God’s word, reassure me that my God is sovereign and because of His faithfulness, all things are possible.
 
So every day when I waken it may be another poor day with pain and yet another hospital appointment, I look out and see the flowers, the birds and God’s fingerprints around me and know that I am indeed blessed and that His mercies are new every morning. I pray that as you listen to this wonderful song that you too are blessed and know that you are loved with an everlasting love.’

LORNA MACE who lives in Faversham, Kent, England says
‘I have three hymns that inspire me and you will not be surprised at my choice :
Amazing grace
Great is Thy faithfulness
How great Thou art.
All tell us of the great love our Saviour has for us and I always manage to shed a tear of thanks whenever I sing them.
They will be sung at my funeral.’


Music:10 Great is thy faithfulness
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1
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Refrain
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;

2
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

3
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

HYMN: Amazing grace
11 Amazing grace
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1
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.

2
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!

3
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

4
The Lord has promised good to me,
His Word my hope secures;
He will my Shield and Portion be,
As long as life endures.

5
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

6
When I’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
I’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when I first begun.

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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE
12 Favourite hymn
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ANGELA WESTWOOD who lives in Kent, England has chosen the hymn,

JOYFUL, JOYFUL

In Angela’s own words:
‘Sometimes we look at a painting or we hear a piece of music and we think that’s enough just to enjoy it. We haven’t had to analyse why it appeals to us. It just does!
What we can be sure of is that it lifts our spirits, and makes the day better.
If requested to add to those thoughts, I suppose I would say that it’s a hymn which expresses what the Christian life should be …joyful! It tells of the might and majesty of God and in the middle of a busy life, it’s a reminder that God is miraculously providing the things which we take so much for granted and at times go largely unnoticed and that the love of the Father is reigning over us. The inspired music of Beethoven seems to capture the words so well. As I’ve heard it sung in different countries and on very different occasions, the memories it stirs always make me pleased to hear it again. I’m sure other people also happen to ‘just like it’, as well!’


INTRODUCTION: Words: Henry J. van Dyke wrote this hymn in 1907 while staying at the home of Harry A. Garfield at Williams College, Massachusetts Van Dyke wrote:
‘These verses are simple expressions of common Christian feelings and desires in this present time—hymns of today that may be sung together by people who know the thought of the age, and are not afraid that any truth of science will destroy religion, or any revolution on earth overthrow the kingdom of heaven. Therefore this is a hymn of trust and joy and hope.

Music: Hymn to Joy, from the 9th Symphony of Ludwig van Beethoven.

Music:13 Joyful, joyful
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1
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;
drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
fill us with the light of day!

2
All Thy works with joy surround Thee,
earth and heaven reflect Thy rays,
Stars and angels sing around Thee,
centre of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain,
flowery meadow, flashing sea,
Singing bird and flowing fountain
call us to rejoice in Thee.

3
Thou art giving and forgiving,
ever blessing, ever blessed,
Wellspring of the joy of living,
ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother,
all who live in love are Thine;
Teach us how to love each other,
lift us to the joy divine.

4
Mortals, join the happy chorus,
which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us,
brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward,
victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us sunward
in the triumph song of life.

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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE
05 Intro Fav hymn
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Our contributors today are

KEITH AND CYNTHIA OXLEY

who live in the north east of England.

God’s Love to me is wonderful’.
This is Cynthia’s first choice.  The title was written inside the front cover of her very first song book by the cousin who gave it to her.  It was number 33 in that edition of the song book.  As time has gone on my health has deteriorated, hopefully only temporarily, to the point where Cynthia has had to enter a nursing care home.  Imagine our surprise when she was allocated room 33!  It caused us to review how those words are so true.  We have felt the love and plans of God all along our married life together, even through some very dark days and the decisions to uproot from some 35 years of life in Chatham to the distant North East, where we are so happy serving God as best we can in company of some wonderful friends.
 
‘And can it be’ (To Cardiff).  Chosen by Cynthia as they tend not to sing it to Cardiff up here in the North East and being Welsh she is always disappointed when alternative tunes are used.  It also reminds us of hearing her father’s powerful voice ring out to repeat the Chorus, “My chains fell off, My heart was free, I rose, went forth and followed thee” even if the leader of the meeting had not authorised it!.
 
‘He giveth more grace’. (Tune: Blacklands).
This is my choice.  The tune itself is the perfect tune as it flows gently up and down but the second verse is of particular relevance. I link it to Philippians 4:13. ‘I can do everything through Him who gives me strength’.  My wife Cynthia was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1997 and having responsibility for her care I often rely on that strength.  Our main worship hall has been newly decorated and one of the features is some beautiful script of a number of biblical texts.  That very text has been placed on the wall just above the place where, in healthier times I sit with my bass trombone. 

HYMN: God's love to me is wonderful, 06 God's love
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God's love to me is wonderful,
That he should deign to hear
The faintest whisper of my heart,
Wipe from mine eyes the tear;
And though I cannot comprehend
Such love, so great, so deep,
In his strong hands my soul I trust,
He will not fail to keep.

Chorus
God's love is wonderful,
God's love is wonderful,
Wonderful that he should give his Son to die for me;
God's love is wonderful!


HYMN And can it be that I should gain 07 And can it be
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1. And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Saviour's blood?
Died he for me who caused his pain,
For me who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! how can it be
That thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

2.
He left his Father's throne above,
So free, so infinite his grace,
Emptied himself of all but love
And bled for Adam's helpless race.
'Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For, O my God, it found out me.

3.
Long my imprisoned spirit lay
Fast bound in sin and nature's night;
Thine eye diffused a quickening ray;
I woke; the dungeon flamed with light.
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed thee.

4. No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in him, is mine.
Alive in him, my living head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach the eternal throne
And claim the crown, through Christ, my own.



HYMN: He giveth more grace
08 He giveth more grace
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1.
He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase,
To added afflictions he addeth his mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.

2.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father's full giving is only begun.

3.
His love has no limits, his grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of his infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.
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FAVOURITE MUSIC FEATURE
09 Favourite music
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Our contributor this week is
RAY MAYCOCK
who lives in Rochester, England.

“I appreciate the offer in being invited to say what my favourite hymn is.  The straight answer is that I don't have one! - there are so many I have great affection and respect for.  If I was forced to make a choice it would have to be "Just as I am."  I remember it around the late 1950s in the Billy Graham campaign at Haringey Arena.  I love the story of how it came to be written, and I marvel how almost every line of every verse has some profound theological truth.

As you know, there is a wonderful musical setting in the Salvation Army's brass band repertoire.  Whenever I hear this music and contemplate the words I am both greatly challenged and deeply blessed.  I believe that this is one of those hymns which can be sung very quietly in a reflective and meditative spirit, and yet it can also be sung with a sense of great triumph and praise.
 
If I had to choose another 'favourite' it would be the chorus which summarises just about everything that could be said about our faith and beliefs...
 
(God) Grace there is my every debt to pay,
(Jesus) Blood to wash my every sin away,
(The Spirit) Power to keep me spotless day by day,
(Who for?) For me, for me! ”
 
Thank you, Ray for your contribution today. We’ve included the hymn with the chorus you’ve quoted, then the hymn ‘Just as I am’ and also the moving interpretation in the brass band medium, of that that hymn, the wonderfully written ‘Just as I am’ by Wilfred Heaton.

HYMN: Saviour, hear me while before thy feet 10 Saviour hear me
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1.
Saviour, hear me while before thy feet
I the record of my sins repeat.
Stained with guilt, myself abhorring,
Filled with grief, my soul outpouring;
Canst thou still in mercy think of me,
Stoop to set my shackled spirit free,
Raise my sinking heart and bid me be
Thy child once more?

Chorus
Grace there is my every debt to pay,
Blood to wash my every sin away,
Power to keep me spotless day by day,
For me, for me!

2.
All the memories of deeds gone by
Rise within me and thy power defy;
With a deathly chill ensnaring,
They would leave my soul despairing.
Saviour, take my hand, I cannot tell
How to stem the tides that round me swell,
How to ease my conscience, or to quell
My flaming heart.

3.
Yet why should I fear? Hast thou not died
That no seeking soul should be denied?
To that heart, its sins confessing,
Canst thou fail to give a blessing?
By the love and pity thou hast shown,
By the blood that did for me atone,
Boldly will I kneel before thy throne,
A pleading soul.

4.
All the rivers of thy grace I claim,
Over every promise write my name;
As I am I come, believing,
As thou art thou dost, receiving,
Bid me rise a free and pardoned slave,
Master o'er my sin, the world, the grave,
Charging me to preach thy power to save
To sinbound souls.

HYMN Just as I am
11 Just as I am
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1
Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

2
Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

3
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

4
Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

5
Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

6
Just as I am, Thy love unknown
Hath broken every barrier down;
Now, to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.


BRASS: JUST AS I AM
12 Just as I am (Band)
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FAVOURITE MUSIC FEATURE

22 Intro Fav music
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Although we’re into Advent season, we’re continuing the favourite music feature and this week we have four contributors-all of the same family! The choice of music comes from Andrew, Teresa, Gareth and Fiona Pennington- dad, mum, son and daughter. The family live in Rochester in Kent in England. Their choice is ‘Evening Hymn’ by Ray Steadman-Allen.

Pictured here are Gareth and his sister, Fiona.

It seems the decisive choice of music eventually rested with Gareth! But in Andrew’s own words:

Living in a house with two young Salvation Army brass players a few days on holiday and away from home, with them separated from their instruments, brings peace to us and merciful relief for the neighbours who still can't come to terms with the idea of baritone practice at 8.00 a.m. on a Sunday morning.
 
A visit to their Salvation Army officer grandfather at Sheringham however gives an excuse for being late to bed with a trip out to the summer Sunday evening Salvation Army open air service on the promenade. Even in the warmest of summers a chill North Sea breeze is generally to be found blowing across the North Norfolk shore as the daylight starts to fade across the horizon and darkness eventually falls. In an age when supposedly fewer go to regular worship each Sunday there is an incongruity in finding the warm of fellowship that comes from perhaps a couple of hundred gathered together as the sun sets.
 
A tingle runs down ones spine; perhaps it is just the cold or maybe something less earthly that causes the goose-pimples as the day concludes with the music to which we associate words reminding us that as we take our rest, others are embarking on a day’s service in God’s name:
 
The sun that bids us rest is waking
Our brethren neath the western sky,
And hour by hour fresh lips are making
Thy wondrous doings heard on high

Thank you to Andrew, Teresa, Gareth and Fiona for your contribution and we pray God will bless you as you continue to serve him faithfully in the Chatham Corps of The Salvation Army

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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

20 Fav hymn
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Our contributor today is Clare Rogers who lives in Brighton, Sussex in England. “My church, St John the Baptist, Palmeira Square, Hove, has a singing group, Laudate (Praise!) which meets fortnightly.  It's a small, informal gathering of people who simply enjoy praising God in song.  One of the delights is the opportunity to learn new hymns and Teach Me to Dance is one of them.
It's jolly, poppy and lifts the spirits. The funny thing is that I can't dance: no rhythm and two left feet. But, who knows?  With God anything is possible.” MUSIC: 21 Teach me to dance
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Teach me to dance to the beat of your heart Teach me to move in the power of your Spirit Teach me to walk in the light of your presence Teach me to dance to the beat of your heart Teach me to love with your heart of compassion Teach me to trust in the word of your promise Teach me to hope in the day of your coming Teach me to dance to the beat of your heart You wrote the rhythm of life Created heaven and earth In You is joy without measure So, like a child in your sight I dance to see your delight For I was made for your pleasure Pleasure Let all my movements express A heart that loves to say 'yes' A will that leaps to obey you Let all my energy blaze To see the joy in your face Let my whole being praise you Praise you ============================================ FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE 20 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor this week is

IRENE STEAD
who lives in
GRIMSBY,
SOUTH HUMBERSIDE,
ENGLAND

‘I have so many favourite hymns, and I guess it depends on the circumstances, moods or my needs of the moment, that decides which one becomes top favourite at that particular time. For instance : ‘Joyful Joyful we adore Thee,’ is great for praising the Lord, and  just humming it can make you feel good, but I have chosen  ‘He Leadeth Me! O blessed thought,’ written by Joseph Henry Gilmore.
 
To know that God leads me through every circumstance of my life is so very reassuring and indeed awesome!  Wow! 

'Whate'er I do where'er I be, Tis God's own hand that leadeth me.' That is amazing and quite wonderful to experience!  Like most normal people I have happy times and also troubled times. Some days I appear to be spiritually walking in the sunshine and on others I can find myself in a dark place, where anxieties and stress crowd out the light and I feel as if I am on a much narrower pathway and unsure of the way ahead. This song helps me to remember that I am not alone. God is holding my hand and leading me steadily and safely forward. It reminds me too, to clasp His hand the tighter and in that I find reassurance and I can be content, as I have no need to worry or chafe about my situation any more. The music and words combined give a real sense of peace to my spirit.

I once took my granddaughter (then aged six) for a walk around the local woods. She was enjoying skipping ahead of me and stopping to look at wild flowers etc, jumping over fallen logs and puddles. Just as we arrived at the halfway point where the track narrowed and we had to proceed in single file, because we were surrounded by brambles, and thicker taller trees, the sun went behind the clouds and the path became suddenly very dark. For a few moments she became frightened and very hesitant particularly as we could hear what sounded like a very large dog not too far away, barking loudly. To her, it became quite eerie, and I was almost having to propel her forward.  Wondering if I might have to carry her the rest of the way,  I decided to change places with her and just hold her hand as we made our way forward. Her response was remarkable, as she brightly exclaimed, "That's better nanna, I feel safe now!"

I too, feel better and safe knowing that my God is leading me throughout all the bright days or darker times of my life and will not let go of my hand even when my days on earth are done. I am His child, and I can praise Him for His wonderful and caring love.’
  
Music: 21 He leadeth me
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1
He leadeth me, O blessèd thought!
O words with heav’nly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be
Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
Refrain

He leadeth me, He leadeth me,
By His own hand He leadeth me;
His faithful follower I would be,
For by His hand He leadeth me.

2
Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,
Sometimes where Eden’s bowers bloom,
By waters still, over troubled sea,
Still ’tis His hand that leadeth me.
Refrain

3
Lord, I would place my hand in Thine,
Nor ever murmur nor repine;
Content, whatever lot I see,
Since ’tis my God that leadeth me.
Refrain

4
And when my task on earth is done,
When by Thy grace the vict’ry’s won,
E’en death’s cold wave I will not flee,
Since God through Jordan leadeth me.
Refrain

======================================
FAVOURITE MUSIC FEATURE

20 Fav hymn
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)


Our contributor today is
MELVYN ACKROYD
Melvyn lives in Iver, Buckinghamshire, England.

‘I have to confess that I love the words and music by my friend Keith Banks, and particularly his song entitled 'Contentment'.
 
Based on Psalm 23 and the Living Bible paraphrase, which has the wonderful opening statement...  'Because the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need'. 
 The song goes on to say...  I rely on his kindness, I allow him to lead...  wonderful!
 
I first heard the song when I was a Salvation Army Divisional Youth Secretary in Scotland and taking part in a youth event at Balvonie in Scotland. The young folk worked together on Keith's mini musical 'Sing a Psalm'.  The song has a distinct Scottish feel to it as well as blessing me with a very special view of Psalm 23. It also reminds me of Scotland and the 11 wonderful years that we spent in ministry there. ‘

Yes, the Lord is my Shepherd, I have all that I need
I rely on his kindness, I allow him to lead,
He gives rest, he gives quietness, he restores me within,
And he strengthens me daily if my life honours him.
 
When the way becomes darker, I will not be afraid,
For my Lord, the Good Shepherd, will be there with his aid,
He will stay close beside me every step of the way,
He will guard me and guide me to the end of the day.
 
He surrounds me with goodness, many blessings are mine,
I am rich in the knowledge of this shepherd divine,
All his unfailing kindness in my life I have known,
And I’ll live with him always in his beautiful home.
(Based on Psalm 23 arr. Keith Banks) 

The melody of the song is included in a euphonium solo called ‘Shepherd Song’ by Trevor Davis which we hear now.

Music Shepherd Song 21 Shepherd song
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE
19 Favourite hymn
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)



Our contributor this week is
STEVE SCOULDING
who lives in St. Helier, Channel Islands.

Steve says:
‘My all time favourite is ‘The Founder’s Song’ (The Founder of The Salvation Army, William Booth). There is not a bad line in it. He must have felt it all or could not have written with such passion. An example to us all.’

All 7 verses of the song are shown here (although only verses 1,2, 5, 6 and 7 are on the audio file. )

Thanks, Steve, for your contribution to the feature. Long may the words of your selected song be sung.

We pray for God’s blessings on you and Mel as you minister in Jersey.

Music:20 O boundless salvation
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

1.
O boundless salvation! deep ocean of love,
O fulness of mercy, Christ brought from above.
The whole world redeeming, so rich and so free,
Now flowing for all men, come, roll over me!

2.
My sins they are many, their stains are so deep.
And bitter the tears of remorse that I weep;
But useless is weeping; thou great crimson sea,
Thy waters can cleanse me, come, roll over me.

3.
My tempers are fitful, my passions are strong,
They bind my poor soul and they force me to wrong;
Beneath thy blest billows deliverance I see,
O come, mighty ocean, and roll over me!

4.
Now tossed with temptation, then haunted with fears,
My life has been joyless and useless for years;
I feel something better most surely would be
If once thy pure waters would roll over me.

5.
O ocean of mercy, oft longing I've stood
On the brink of thy wonderful, life-giving flood!
Once more I have reached this soul-cleansing sea,
I will not go back till it rolls over me.

6.
The tide is now flowing, I'm touching the wave,
I hear the loud call of the mighty to save;
My faith's growing bolder, delivered I'll be;
I plunge 'neath the waters, they roll over me.

7.
And now, hallelujah! the rest of my days
Shall gladly be spent in promoting his praise
Who opened his bosom to pour out this sea
Of boundless salvation for you and for me.
-----------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

00 Favourite hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)
Our contributor today is
STEVE ARGENT
who lives in Sussex in England
His choice of hymn is ‘The Power of the Cross’

‘It may seem strange but although I have been a Christian for many years I have consciously neglected to reflect on the crucifixion. I rebelled against and was repelled by the obscenity of the event, so instead focused on the glory of the resurrection.

Singing this song as a member of a small choir challenged my attitude toward the price of forgiveness and the importance of true repentance.

The music is emotional but in combination with the words there is a message both powerful and compelling which surpasses pure sentiment.

The price and impact of personal sin (in the full sense of that word) is both costly and devastating so the ultimate sacrifice, as a demonstration of God's unqualified love just has to be acknowledged. This requires personal humility and that is a characteristic which does not come naturally to me.
I simply had to review my standpoint. Not for the first time, I realised I was wrong -'what a love, what a cost'. Like C S Lewis I found myself dragged kicking and screaming to find forgiveness at the cross.’

Music:ThePowerOfTheCrossOhToSeeTheDawn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

Oh, to see the dawn,
Of the darkest day,
Christ on the road to Calvary.
Tried by sinful men,
Torn and beaten, then,
Nailed to a cross of wood.

This, the power of the cross;
Christ became sin for us.
Took the blame, bore the wrath -
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Oh, to see the pain,
Written on the face,
Bearing the awesome weight of sin.
Every bitter thought,
Every evil deed,
Crowning Your bloodstained brow.
This, the power of the cross;
Christ became sin for us.
Took the blame, bore the wrath -
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Now the daylight flees,
Now the ground beneath,
Quakes as its Maker bows His head.
Curtain torn in two,
Dead are raised to life,
'Finished!' the victory cry.

This, the power of the cross;
Christ became sin for us.
Took the blame, bore the wrath -
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Oh, to see my name,
Written in the wounds,
For through Your suffering I am free.
Death is crushed to death,
Life is mine to live,
Won through Your selfless love.

This, the power of the cross;
Son of God - slain for us.
What a love! What a cost!
We stand forgiven at the cross.

===========================================

12 Fav hymn
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)



Our contributor today is JOAN WOODMAN who lives in
Sheffield, Yorkshire, England.

‘A few months ago my world was shattered at the news of the sudden death of my younger sister and
her husband - brutally knocked down and killed. The trauma was such as I had never experienced before - but the Lord promised sufficient grace in time of need. He certainly provided that in the form of cards, letters, phone calls flowers etc.

From my bedroom window I see lots of trees and in the morning there are always many birds flying around.  I am always intriqued when I see the pigeons land on a very flimsy branch - it sways to and fro but it is safe and rests for a while no doubt regaining strength.  So amid my ongoing sorrow  - when I "feel bewildered and yes, afraid", - the Holy Spirit does hear my prayer and I am "daily made aware of His everlasting arms of love".

My father liked the following poem  
"Clouds will turn to sunshine,
Night will turn to day,
if you will just remember 
God is not far away." 

May this be your experience.

Music: God’s provision
13 His provision
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

HIS PROVISION

1
At the moment of my weakness, when my need for power is plain,
And my own strength is exhausted once again, Then my Lord has made provision for the day of my despair,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer, my prayer
Then my Lord has made provision for the day of my despair,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer.

Chorus
Holy Spirit! Promised Presence, fall on me.
Holy Spirit! Make me all I long to be.
Holy Spirit! Holy Spirit!
Give your power to me, O Holy Spirit.

2
When the darkness falls around me, when bewildered and afraid,
When I feel the most deserted and betrayed,
Then my every need is answered by God's providential care,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer, my prayer,
Then my every need is answered by God's providential care,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer.

3
Nothing now can rob God's servant of the peace that he bequeaths,
Nothing take away the strength his presence breathes.
Of the everlasting arms of love I'm daily made aware,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer, my prayer.
Of the everlasting arms of love I'm daily made aware,
And his precious Holy Spirit hears my prayer.
============================================

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

00 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor this week is


HELEN CARTER
who lives in Grimsby, N.E. Lincolnshire in England.

“My testimony regarding a hymn or a song is related to the song ‘Faithful One So Unchanging.’

After a serious road traffic accident I found myself in hospital with broken bones down the left side of my body including face, arm, 3 breaks in my pelvis and one very complex leg fracture and most of my calf muscle torn away. I had over 60 staples in a leg wound. Also I contracted MRSA. I was separated from my husband for 3 months whilst he was in Bedford hospital and I in Addenbrookes hospital in Cambridge. I had no family or friends locally as our home is in Grimsby 130 miles from Cambridge. Our son was working abroad and our daughter lived in Middlesex.

During this time I found God to be so faithful to His promises. He was an ever present help in time of trouble. His presence was always with me. He brought light, comfort and joy into even the darkest times. He was definitely my anchor in the storm and lifted me up constantly during the two years it took to fully recover.  The psalms were a special source of comfort to me. He truly was my rock and my fortress.

When we sing songs and hymns we give mental assent to what they say but when we have experienced the truth of their content we can sing them even more heartily and most of all, thankfully.”

Music:16 Faithful one
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

Faithful One so unchanging
Faithful One you are my rock of peace
Lord of all I depend on you
I call out to you again and again
I call out to you again and again.
You are my rock in times of trouble
You lift me up when I fall down
All through the storm your love is the anchor.
My hope is in you alone.

---------------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

11 Favourite hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor today is

TONY MA
who lives in Hong Kong.

Tony gives a list of his favourites. He says:
“There are many hymns that I like! Many of them are in Chinese and modern!
For 'old' hymns, I list them as follows :-
O God our help - Isaac Watts
Many are things - Howard Davies
Don't assume that God's dismissed you - John Gowans
The Lord is my Shepherd - traditional
The Lord's Prayer - traditional
Amazing Grace + All chains are gone (medley)
Praise to the Lord  -Joachim Neander
O Lord my God - Carl Boberg
Prayer gently lifts me - Hal Beckett
God make my life - Matilda Barbara Betham-Edwards
Prayer is the soul's sincere desire - James Montgomery
Thou Art the Way - Arch Wiggins
And there also many Christmas, Easter and holidays songs!

It is not easy to list all songs!”

Music:12 O God our help
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

1
Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal home.

2
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.

3
Before the hills in order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.

4
A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night
Before the rising sun.

5
Time, like an ever rolling stream,
Bears all its sons away;
They fly, forgotten, as a dream
Dies at the opening day.

6
Our God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guard while troubles last,
And our eternal home.

=====================================

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

11 fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

Our contributor today is

PETER WOOD   “Having been brought up in a Christian (Salvationist)family, I have never been sinking deep in sin, my parents saw to that, but I have reason to be grateful to the songwriter (James Rowe) for penning the words that bring me great comfort and gratitude to God:- Particularly 2nd and 3rd verses and Chorus.    As a lifelong Christian, and hearing some superb messages and preachers I am also aware that the song by Howard Davies is my personal experience:-   I know the God in whom I believe but other people can put it into words better than me. Thank you Peter for sharing your thoughts with us today and we’re going to have a double blessing by including both your choices ‘Love lifted me’ and ‘Many are the things I cannot understand.’

HYMN 12 Love lifted me
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

1
I was sinking deep in sin,
    far from the peaceful shore;
Very deeply stained within,
    Sinking to rise no more;
But the Master of the sea
    Heard my despairing cry.
From the waters lifted me;
    Now Safe am I.  
Love lifted me, love lifted me,
    When no one but Christ could help,
Love lifted me.
 
2
All my heart to Him I'll give,
    Ever to him I'll cling;
In his blessed presence live,
    Ever His praises sing.
Love so mighty and so true
    Merits my soul's best songs;
Faithful, loving service, too
    To Him belongs.
 
"Love lifted me, love lifted me,
    When no one but Christ could help,
Love lifted me."
 
3.
Souls in danger look above,
    Jesus completely saves;
He will lift you by his love
    Out of the angry waves.
He's the Master of the sea,
    Billows his will obey;
He your Saviour wants to be,
    Be saved today.
 
Love lifted me, love lifted me,
    When no one but Christ could help,
Love lifted me.

HYMN
13 Many are the things
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

1
Many are the things I cannot understand,
    All above me mystery I see;
But the gift most wonderful from God's own hand
    Surely is his gift of grace to me!
 
Chorus:
Higher than the stars that reach eternity
    Broader than the boundaries of endless space,
Is the boundless love of God that pardoned me;
    Oh the wonder of his grace!"
 
2.
When I came to Jesus with my sin and shame
    And to him confessed my deepest need,
When by faith I trusted fully in his name,
    God's rich grace was granted me indeed.
 
3.
Passing understanding is his boundless love,
    More than I can ever comprehend,
Jesus, in his mercy, left his throne above
    All to be my Saviour and my friend.

----------------------------------------------------------------- Our contributor today is Dr. Helge Pahus who is from Denmark.

Helge says:

I am a Danish Lutheran minister, retired four years ago, but still active with many things, including Alpha, which is how I met Malcolm a number of years ago.

Due to a lot of travelling I am familiar with many English classical hymns. But very few of them are in the Danish hymn book. If they made it into a Danish translation, they are normally only known in free church circles.

To me, the very helpful thing has been the stream of new praise and worship songs, starting in the 1970's. In the congregation, where I was the vicar, we began to use this type of worship in our Sunday service, unusual in Denmark. These songs have been officially despised, but for us they became a tremendous blessing. If the Danish Lutheran Sunday service is run by the book, which it normally is, it does not attract the common man. New believers and people below 60 years of age have no desire to sing 5-6 verses long, classical Danish hymns on Sunday morning, however great these hymns might be.

To me, it is good to mix old hymns and new worship songs. Without the new songs & style, we would never have been able to reach non-churchgoers on a large scale.

My favourites among the new songs? The numbers are endless, but here is a song which has proven valuable in its Danish translation:

As the deer pants for the water So my soul longs after you You alone are my heart's desire And I long to worship you You alone are my strength, my shield To you alone will my spirit yield You alone are my hearts desire And I long to worship you

Only this part of the song is used in Danish. The text is Psalm 42, the music written 1981 by Martin Nystrom, USA. For more than ten years this was the favourite song of my confirmants, and even today, when I join a team doing Alpha in prison, this simple song is the favourite. I really don't know why it is so.

Another song, with a broad use, is ”Above All,” written by the famous American worship leader Michael W. Smith. The Danish translation is done so well, that in my last years as a vicar I even used it for funerals! Modern in style, and with a very satisfying communication of the gospel. It works so well. Above all powers above all kings Above all nature and all created things Above all wisdom and all the ways of man You were here before the world began Above all kingdoms above all thrones Above all wonders the world has ever known Above all wealth and treasures of the earth There's no way to measure what You're worth Crucified laid behind the stone You lived to die rejected and alone Like a Rose trampled on the ground You took the fall and thought of me Above all
By the way, the old black American gospel song style has been storming forward in Denmark; we now have hundreds of gospel choirs, typically with a majority of women and non-believers. It is an excellent tool for congregations who want to go fishing. And that’s we want, right?

Helge Pahus
former vicar of Karlslunde Strandkirke, Danish Lutheran Church

Thank you, Helge, for sharing your thoughts with us today. As we sing and listen to the songs you have chosen, we pray God’s blessing on your continued ministry in your well earned retirement and pray too for good health for you and your wife, Kirsten

==========================================

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

11 Intro Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)
Our contributor today has been a friend of mine for many years. Her name is

JANET STONE
and she lives in Luton in England and is a member of The Salvation Army and is the Songster Leader ( Choir leader) there.

She says:
“There are many songs in our song book which I consider to be a favourite, depending upon what’s taking place in my life at the time.
The words of Fanny Crosby are very special to me in the song ‘Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine’ and always have been, and the tune, ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ brings to me memories of my mum singing this as she carried out her chores when I was a child.
How exciting it is to be able to say, as in the last verse of this song, ‘ I, in my Saviour, am happy and blest’. What a thrill to feel these sentiments!

In our song book, are words written by Jean Sophia Pigott who was born in Ireland in 1845 and who passed away at the early age of 37 in 1882, but in her comparatively short life she wrote the wonderful words of the hymn ‘Lord Jesus thou dost keep thy child.’”

So here are Janet’s two songs, firstly, Lord Jesus thou dost keep thy child. Unfortunately this has not been recorded so we hear the tune Janet feels fits the words so well. It’s called Pembroke and the words are spoken over the tune. Then we’ll hear ‘Blessed assurance.’

Music 12 Lord Jesus, thou dost keep
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)
Lord Jesus, thou dost keep thy child Through sunshine or through tempest wild; Thine is such wondrous power to save Thine is the mighty love that gave It’s all on Calvary. O glorious Saviour, thee I praise; To thee my new glad song I raise, And tell of what thou art. Thy grace is boundless in its store; Thy face of love shines evermore: Thou givest me thy heart Upon thy promises I stand, Trusting in Thee; thine own right hand Doth keep and comfort me. My soul doth triumph in thy word; Thine, thine, be all the praise, dear Lord. As thine the victory. And Janet says that ‘This last verse is my favourite; I absolutely love it; it’s so true for me.’ Love perfecteth what it begins; Thy power doth save me from my sins; Thy grace upholdeth me. This life of trust, how glad, how sweet, My need and thy great fulness meet And I have all in thee.
Thank you so much, Janet, for sharing your thoughts with us today. It’s kind of you to have made the time to do that when you have such a heavy commitment at your place of worship. --------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

10 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor is

JIM BLACK who lives in California in the USA. He is shown here with his granddaughter, Kylie in, as Jim puts it, an effort to let her inject a little charm and grace to the scene!

Jim is the webmaster of the Veil Ministries web site and without whom it simply couldn’t exist. We are so grateful to God for him.

“I really don’t have a unique favourite hymn since there are so many - but the first that came to mind, and therefore must be my favourite at this moment is Albert Orsborn's "I have no claim on grace/ I have no right to plead" sung to the tune of Chalvey.

For me these words encapsulate the great mystery of Romans 5:8 "In that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us". I find myself agreeing wholeheartedly with Paul and John the Apostle who spoke of the love of God being "lavished upon us". Truly, one of the great mysteries! These words always bring blessing and challenge to me and help me put every situation in the right perspective.”

We are so grateful, Jim, not only for your contribution today (which happens to my favourite hymn, as well) but for all you do hosting the web site. May God bless you as together with Marion you continue to minister for God is so many lovely ways.

Music:11 I have no claim
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

1.
I have no claim on grace;
I have no right to plead;
I stand before my maker's face
Condemned in thought and deed.
But since there died a Lamb
Who, guiltless, my guilt bore,
I lay fast hold on Jesus' name,
And sin is mine no more.

2.
From whence my soul's distress
But from the hold of sin?
And whence my hope of righteousness
But from thy grace within?
I speak to thee my need
And tell my true complaint;
Thou only canst convert indeed
A sinner to a saint.

3.
O pardon-speaking blood!
O soul-renewing grace!
Through Christ I know the love of God
And see the Father's face.
I now set forth thy praise,
Thy loyal servant I,
And gladly dedicate my days
My God to glorify.
----------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

12 fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

Our contributor is
AUDREY HARRISON
who lives in Hadleigh, Essex in England

“There are so many beautiful songs in our song book, but one that has been a favourite for many years is 'Mid all the traffic of the ways, turmoils without, within..’

This song became more familiar to me during my days of the Corps Cadet House parties at Sunbury Court during the years l954-l957. For those not familiar with Salvation Army terminology, Corps Cadets were young people in their teens and early twenties who gathered at their Corps (Church) each week to study God's word. The House parties were for such Corps Cadets who gathered from all over the country at a beautiful mansion in Sunbury on Thames, in Surrey for a week, to enjoy not only each other's company, but studied the bible and enjoyed relaxation too.   It was there that I was 'coaxed' into singing this particular song one evening to the tune of 'Lloyd', and since that time the song has meant quite a lot to me.   These days everything appears to have to be done immediately, if not sooner, and we tend to be swept into the 'fast stream' and this song helps to slow us down and make time for the quiet times in our lives.

I just love the tune of Fewster, which marries the song beautifully.”

Well, I’m so sorry that no one has recorded the words to that particular tune but her are the words spoken with the tune Fewster in the background and then we’ll hear the words sung to the tune of Shenandoah.

Thank you Audrey for sharing your thoughts with us today.

Music:13 Fewster
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

’Mid all the traffic of the ways,
Turmoils without, within,
Make in my heart a quiet place,
And come and dwell therein.

A little shrine of quietness,
All sacred to Thyself,
Where Thou shalt all my soul possess,
And I may find myself.

A little place of mystic grace,
Od self and sin swept bare,
Where I may look upon thy face,
And talk with thee in prayer..

Come, occupy my silent place,
And make thy dwelling there!
More grace is wrought in quietness
Than any is aware.

HYMN: Mid all the traffic to the tune Shenandoah

14 Mid all the traffic
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) ----------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

11 Favourite hymn
(To hear this audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor today is

BRIAN DAVIES
who lives in Sittingbourne in England

‘Having been brought up in the Methodist Church, I have been able to fulfil my calling as a Methodist Local Preacher for 53 years. When training, I had a Superintendent Minister who said to me 'Preach the Gospel and theology will take care of itself'' I have never forgotten those wise words and so the hymns of Charles Wesley, which express our faith, mean a great deal to me.

It is very difficult to choose a favourite Wesley hymn but the hymn 'Jesus -the name high over all' sums up for me my preaching when one finds in the verses:-

'Tis all my business here below
To cry 'Behold the Lamb!'

Preach Him to all, and cry in death
'Behold, behold the Lamb!

I have though a real favourite hymn which was written by Kate Barclay Wilkinson 'May the mind of Christ my Saviour' Besides preaching, I have had the privilege of carrying out Pastoral work within the Church and have found myself in many situations. Sometimes it has been sharing joys, helping an unexpected need, sharing sorrows. Laughing with folk, yes and indeed crying with folk.

In every situation though, the words of this hymn have journeyed with me reminding me that I need to live for Christ day by day.
The tune which also complements the words is St Leonard's (Gould) written by Arthur Cyril Barham-Gould.’

Thank you Brian for your contribution today and we pray God’s blessing on your ministry among the people at the beautiful church in Hartlip.

----------------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

12 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor today is

DAVID HARRISON
(whose wife Audrey was the contributor two weeks ago. )
Here is David to name his choice and to explain the reason for choosing it.

“Having been an Salvation Army for 62 yrs I have many favourite songs and tunes.
In 1953, when I was 18 years old the Queen asked me to join her forces, and she gave me no option. My last piece the band at Bexleyheath Band played at my request was Eric Ball’s Constant Trust and the trombone solo in that piece "Trusting as the moments fly" I recalled many times as I walked back to my training camp in Devizes, during the cold winter nights of November 1953, particularly the words in the thirds verse of the hymn ‘if the path be drear.’ “

Thanks Dave for sharing your memories with us. I’m sure the Queen was pleased that you chose to serve her!

So we’re going to have David’s chosen hymn and then we have an organ improvisation on the same melody. This is followed by the brass band selection, ‘Constant Trust’ which David mentions. This composition features the hymns ‘Trust and Obey’ and Simply Trusting Every Day’.


HYMN: Simply trusting every day
13 Simply trusting
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)
1. Simply trusting every day. Trusting through a stormy way, Even when my faith is small, Trusting Jesus, that is all. Chorus Trusting as the moments fly, Trusting as the days go by, Trusting him whate'er befall, Trusting Jesus, that is all. 2. Brightly doth his Spirit shine Into this poor heart of mine; While he leads I need not fall, Trusting Jesus, that is all. 3. Singing, if my way be clear, Praying, if the path be drear, If in danger, for him call; Trusting Jesus, that is all. 4. Trusting him while life shall last, Trusting him till earth be past, Till within the jasper wall; Trusting Jesus, that is all.


ORGAN IMPROVISATION: Simply trusting
14 Organ Simply trusting
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

BRASS: Constant Trust
15 Constant Trust
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

13 Fav Hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab)

Our contributor is

JEAN WRIGHT who lives in Grimsby, South Humberside



“One of my favourite hymns is ‘How great thou art’. God's creation never fails to fill me with the Holy Spirit. Beautiful skies, trees, birds, rivers, sunshine, rain etc. Our eldest son does not go to church as we do, but when he is in hillsides etc, that is his church and he is in wonder at God's creation.”



Music:14 How great thou art
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1
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,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Chorus
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

2
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.

3
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou art!"
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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

10 Favourite hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor today is

GWYNNETH WILLIAMS
who lives in Blackpool in England

I'll Go In The Strength of The Lord'
 
“Life's journey has taken me down many roads, none more so than the path I have been on since retiring from work.

 It is so rewarding to see people that you have nurtured starting to take control of their own lives again back in the community; but I can't begin to do this under my own steam and the verses in the song 'I'll Go In The Strength of The Lord' are so pertinent, giving me the confidence I need.....”

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today Gwyneth. And here is your chosen song….I’ll go in the strength of the Lord and as you hear it, we pray God’s blessing on you as you continue to serve the Lord in your retirement.

MUSIC11 I'll go in the strength:
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1.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord,
In paths he has marked for my feet;
I'll follow the light of his word,
Nor shrink from the dangers I meet,
His presence my steps shall attend,
His fulness my wants shall supply;
On him, till my journey shall end,
My unwavering faith shall rely.

Chorus
I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord.

2.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
To work he appoints me to do;
In joy which his smile doth afford
My soul shall her vigour renew.
His wisdom shall guard me from harm.
His power my sufficiency prove;
I'll trust his omnipotent arm,
And prove his unchangeable love.

3.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
To conflicts which faith will require,
His grace as my shield and reward,
My courage and zeal shall inspire.
Since he gives the word of command.
To meet and encounter the foe,
With his sword of truth in my hand.
To suffer and triumph I'll go.
===============================================

FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

06 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab) Our contributor is

JACQUI PROCTOR
who lives in Western Australia, having moved from the UK in 1987.

‘All my life I have been attending The Salvation Army, as my parents were active Salvationists. I married Jack in 1967 although, to be honest, we can’t actually remember which year it was, so we didn’t celebrate our Ruby Wedding in case we had the wrong year!
We have been blessed with two sons. Our eldest, Ashley, is now living and training at The Salvation Army Melbourne Training College. His wife, Yvette, supports him although she’s not in training herself as a cadet, and they have two beautiful children. He will be commissioned in December.
Our youngest son is Robert who is married and has three gorgeous children. Robert’s wife is Vanita who comes originally from Tasmania. The whole family is very active within the Corps at Perth Fortress and I marvel at what they do each week. We feel blessed with our sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
All my life, my Salvation Army Song Book has been a most precious gift to me. I love to read the songs, and when asked to sing, I invariably chose a song from the Song Book. I never fail to receive a blessing when reading the inspired words. When asked to choose a favourite song, I knew it would be a formidable task, but there is one song I dearly treasure – ‘Jesus Loves Me’, using the tune written by Colonel Ray Bowes. This evokes very tender, sweet memories of singing it with the International Staff Songsters in a high security prison where I sang the first verse as a solo, followed by the other verses in a choral arrangement. The last verse was truly sung from the hearts of all members of the ISS, our prayer being that these men would know that love for themselves. Many years ago, I visited Singapore with my children en route to Australia (we never thought we would eventually move to Australia in those days). On the Sunday morning we caught a taxi from the hotel to the local Salvation Army corps where we met the Australian officers who were in charge. I was invited to sing and, of course, I chose a song from the Song Book. However, as I finished, I felt a tug on my jacket and heard a voice requesting that I sing something else. I looked into the congregation and saw a group of about twenty young children, aged around four to seven years, from the local Boys’ Home. I also looked at my two sons and immediately thought of the first song we had learned together – yes, it was ‘Jesus Loves Me’. I started to sing unaccompanied and when I reached the chorus, the children from the Boys’ Home suddenly began to sing along with me in their own language. It was a magnificent recognition of God’s love for everyone in the world. Another song which I enjoy reading is one I have never sung, or ever heard sung, but I love its poetry: 1 The little cares which fretted me, I lost them yesterday Among the fields, above the sea, Among the winds at play; Among the lowing of the herds, The rustling of the trees, Among the singing of the birds, The humming of the bees. 2. The foolish fears of what may come, I cast them all away Among the clover-scented grass, Among the new-mown hay; Among the hushing of the corn, Where drowsing poppies nod. Ill thoughts can die, and good be born, Out in the fields of God.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-61)
The words by Elizabeth Barrett Browning remind me of England but it has a greater depth because all of us have fears from time to time and the song reminds us that “Ill thoughts can die, and good be born”. Our Salvation Army Song Book is a golden treasury of meaningful, spiritual words. The poetry is truly unsurpassed
I have yet to come across any religious denomination which can prove that their success in reaching people has been based on using the more modern types of songs and choruses. I concede that there are some which are meaningful and helpful, but I never want to lose touch with my Song Book.’

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today Jacqui and we’re going to hear the song you have spoken about, ‘Jesus loves me’. We pray for God’s continuing blessing on you and Jack and your family in your ministry for the Lord in Australia. MUSIC: JESUS LOVES ME 07 Jesus loves me
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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE

07 Favourite hymn
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The contributor is
RAY JONES
who lives in Kent in England.

Ray’s choice of hymn is
‘CROWN HIM WITH MANY CROWNS.’

‘Being asked to choose a favourite hymn is, for me, an almost impossible task as so many great hymns come to mind, both traditional and contemporary. So many verses and their related melodies that have meant such a lot over the years and continue to challenge, inspire, comfort, bless and draw out my thanks and praise to God and to my living Saviour.

I have finally chosen a hymn the text of which triggers all of these emotions and its majestic music brings out these reactions to the full. I trust it will thrill you as it does me and open our hearts once more to marvel at all these words mean for each of God’s children. ‘

Music:08 Crown him
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1. Crown him with many crowns,
The Lamb upon his throne;
Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns
All music but its own;
Awake, my soul, and sing
Of him who died for thee,
And hail him as thy matchless King
Through all eternity.

2. Crown him the Lord of life,
Who triumphed o'er the grave,
And rose victorious in the strife
For those he came to save;
His glories now we sing
Who died, and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring,
And lives, that death may die.

3. Crown him the Lord of peace,
Whose power a sceptre sways
From pole to pole, that wars may cease
And all be prayer and praise;
His reign shall know no end,
And round his pierced feet
Fair flowers of Paradise extend
Their fragrance ever sweet.

4. Crown him the Lord of love;
Behold his hands and side.
Those wounds, yet visible above,
In beauty glorified;
All hail, redeemer, hail!
For thou hast died for me;
Thy praise and glory shall not fail
Throughout eternity.
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Our contributor is

RICHARD STREET
who lives in Ontario, Canada.


“My favourite Hymn is ‘I’ll Go In the Strength of The Lord.’

 My first meeting at The Salvation Army this song was sung.  It immediately issued a challenge for me.  Here was a declaration – I’ll GO! Not send somebody else, not well maybe, but I’LL GO!  An immediate response to a world crying for help.
Was I ready for this?  Could I go? Did I have the strength to listen to the leading of the Lord – YES. And like the energizer bunny I have been going ever since. Praise the Lord!”

Thank you Richard for your words. We pray God’s blessing on your ministry as church organist and choir leader and as you together with your wife Gillian serve God in Ontario, Canada.


HYMN
11 I'll go
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1.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord,
In paths he has marked for my feet;
I'll follow the light of his word,
Nor shrink from the dangers I meet,
His presence my steps shall attend,
His fulness my wants shall supply;
On him, till my journey shall end,
My unwavering faith shall rely.

Chorus
I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord.

2.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
To work he appoints me to do;
In joy which his smile doth afford
My soul shall her vigour renew.
His wisdom shall guard me from harm.
His power my sufficiency prove;
I'll trust his omnipotent arm,
And prove his unchangeable love.

3.
I'll go in the strength of the Lord
To conflicts which faith will require,
His grace as my shield and reward,
My courage and zeal shall inspire.
Since he gives the word of command.
To meet and encounter the foe,
With his sword of truth in my hand.
To suffer and triumph I'll go.
-----------------------------------------

06 Fav hymn
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The contributor is


EILEEN ASKHAM
who lives in Northern Ireland.

“My husband Peter and I have been going to Mallorca now for 21 years, and near to the place where we stay there is a lovely little monastery and Church - unfortunately it is situated on the top of a mountain, and to get to it you have to drive up a very steep, narrow road that snakes up the side of the mountain.
There is but one short, straight part of the road where you can relax and enjoy the view over the land below. The road absolutely terrifies me, especially when you meet another car coming in the opposite direction – it takes all the skill of the driver to manoeuvre past the other car – and every time this happens I always think of those notices you sometimes see pinned to trees and lampposts in Northern Ireland that say ‘Prepare to meet thy God’.
But every year we make our way up the mountain to the top, and there we worship God in the silent and contemplative atmosphere of that little monastery church. I must admit though that before we leave, my final prayer to God is ‘we’ve got here Lord, now please get us back down safely’.
One year the local town decided to try letting coaches go up to the top and it was our misfortune to meet one as it was trying to get back down again. It’s bad enough driving forward on this road but reversing is another thing, I can tell you. My testimony must be one of thanks to God that so far, I’ve lived to tell the tale.
I liken my journey with God to that road: there have been times when my walk with him has been wonderful – no twists or turns – no obstacles in the way, no temptations to overcome – no battles to fight –no hurts or disappointments to deal with - and life has been very good.
And I give him thanks this morning for those times of blessing. However, as we all know, no road is always straight – and equally in my life my spiritual road has been very difficult to travel.
There have been times of fear, of pain, of discouragement, of mistrust, of confusion, of heartache, of failure, of anger, of rebellion and of spiritual stagnation. I’ve been tired trying to make progress but failing – I’ve doubted God’s presence in my life and struggled to continue my journey with him. Sad to say, there have even been times of reversing, or to use old terminology – backsliding.
But the God who called me to him as a child of 6 years old, the God whose covenant with me is ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name – thou are mine’ – has never left me, never failed me, has always been on the road beside me, and has used every experience to confirm his presence in my life, and to help me grow in grace, and develop and mature as his child.
My testimony is one of gratitude to God for his patience with me, for loving me for who I am, and, in the words of the old chorus, for giving me the victory again and again. Can you wonder why it is I love him so?
My children have asked me why it is that we go back year after year to the Church at the top of the mountain if the road terrifies me so much. Why do I do it? Because I know, and love and trust the driver – and Peter, so far, has never failed to get us to the top and back down again safely, even when we have to contend with obstacles on the road. In the same way I know and love and trust my Saviour - I trust him to keep me safe, to guide and direct me and to walk beside me as I make this journey through life with him, and I know that while I keep my hand firmly fixed in his, he will lead me safely home.
There are many songs in our songbook that are precious to me. Olive Holbrook’s song, ‘Deep were the scarlet stains’ is one because it expresses more eloquently than I ever could my testimony to the saving and keeping power of God…….. HALLELUJAH!”

Thank you, Eileen, for sharing your descriptive thoughts with us today. We pray you will continue to enjoy the blessings of God as you continue, with your husband Peter, to serve the Lord in the beautiful land of Northern Ireland.
MUSIC07 Deep were the scarlet stains
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1. Deep were the scarlet stains of sin,
Strong were the bonds of fault within;
But now I stand both pure and free,
The blood of Jesus cleanses me.

2. Strong are the foes that round me creep,
Constant the vigil I must keep
But from a secret armoury
The grace of Jesus strengthens me.

3. What though the treacherous road may wind,
Faith in my heart assures my mind;
E'en when his face I do not see,
The hand of Jesus reaches me.

4. This is the lamp to pilgrim given,
This is my passport into Heaven,
Portent of immortality,
That God, through Jesus, dwells in me.

Olive Holbrook (1895-1986)
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This week’s contributor is
HEATHER FITZ-PATRICK WHO LIVES IN ESSEX IN ENGLAND
07 Fav hymn
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Heather has chosen ‘Everlasting God’ and in her own words says
“This song, when signed in British Sign Language, is indicative of the soaring of the eagles’ wings. You cannot see the wind; you do not hear the wind but, like God, it is always there. It is powerful and the thermal winds which cause the eagle to soar are symbolic of the support given by prayer. This is why I love this song!”
Thank you Heather for contributing today and as you continue to use your giftedness for God, we pray God’s blessing on you and your husband, Roger, and the children.

Music 08 Everlasting God
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Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord (repeat)

Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our Strong Deliverer
You are the everlasting God The everlasting God You do not faint You won't grow weary You're the defender of the weak You comfort those in need You lift us up on wings like eagles

------------------------------------------

The contributor today is

DANIEL CROMBIE
“I was born in Luton, an industrial town thirty miles north of London, and attended the Luton Temple Corps of The Salvation Army. I went to school at the local grammar school and while in the third year a new boy arrived in our form. His parents were Salvation Army Officers, and they had been appointed to serve in Luton. Malcolm Westwood was his name. This event started a friendship which has survived over half a century. I find it difficult to limit myself to just one favourite hymn, since so many have at various times in my Christian journey proved beneficial in providing me with much needed comfort, advice and inspiration. Who among you have not needed the comfort of the words found in the first verse of the hymn written by Fannie Jolliffee?

I do not ask thee, Lord, That all my life may be An easy, smooth and pleasant path; 'Twould not be good for me. But O I ask today That grace and strength be given To keep me fighting all the way That leads to God and Heaven!
The final verse has been my support on many occasions. And what if strength should fail, And heart more deeply bleed? Or what if dark and lonely days Draw forth the cry of need? That cry will bring thee down My needy soul to fill, And thou wilt teach my yearning heart To know and do thy will.

Since I do not always conform to current ideas and fashions, I would include in my short list a song, not a hymn. This may be unusual, but it provides me with helpful thoughts. It is Ken Dodd’s, “Happiness”. A very popular song, which even managed to climb into the top ten. It may be thought of as a popular song aimed at mercenary gain, but it is very challenging. Consider the words:

Happiness is a field of grain, turning its face to the falling rain.

How often would we benefit by turning to something which, although we do not like it, we know it would do us good? When you come to measuring a man’s success, don’t count money, count happiness.

How often do we get confused with what is worthwhile in this life?

My third choice was made for me by no less a person than the composer Eric Ball. He came to conduct our band practice at Luton one evening, and during a break in rehearsal, he went to the piano and started to play the well known melody “The Londonderry Air”.
While sitting at the piano he explained why he considered that tune to be the perfect composition. He explained why in his opinion it was superior to all others. I had not liked that tune, for a very personal reason, and was surprised by his choice. After listening to such an expert give such a wonderful reason why it was his perfect tune, I reconsidered its merits.
When I later heard the words which a Christian writer had associated with that tune, I was totally transformed. What had been an anathema to me became very dear to me. The words encompass all aspects of Christian life and its purpose. It gives me feelings of inadequacies, consolation, hope and purpose. I hope this finds an echo in your life.

May God bless you all.” Thank you, Daniel. We’ve shared some good times together over the years and I’m so grateful for the reminisce and, of course, for the choice of music you have made for the service today. Unfortunately, neither ‘I do not ask thee Lord’ or ‘If on my soul’ has been recorded so we’ll play the music of the first with the words spoken over it and then we’ll hear the Londonderry Air arranged for Brass Band, the words of which are given here.
And to complete Daniel’s choice, well we just have to have ‘Happiness!’ Thanks Daniel!
HYMN: I DO NOT ASK THEE LORD
17 I do not ask
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1.
I do not ask thee, Lord,That all my life may be
An easy, smooth and pleasant path;
'Twould not be good for me.
But O I ask today
That grace and strength be given
To keep me fighting all the way
That leads to God and Heaven!

2.
I do not ask thee, Lord,
That tears may never flow,
Or that the world may always smile
Upon me as I go.
From thee fell drops of blood;
A thorn-crown pressed thy brow;
Thy suffering brought thee victory then,
And thou canst help me now

3.
And what if strength should fail,
And heart more deeply bleed?
Or what if dark and lonely days
Draw forth the cry of need?
That cry will bring thee down
My needy soul to fill,
And thou wilt teach my yearning heart
To know and do thy will.

BRASS: IF ON MY SOUL (LONDONDERRY AIR)
18 Londonderry Air
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If on my soul a trace of sin remaineth
If on my hands a stain may yet be seen
If one dark could a weary mind retaineth
O wash me, Lord, till every part be clean
For I would live that men may see thyself in me
I would in faith ascend thy holy hill,
And with my thoughts in tune with thy divinity
Would learn how best to do thy holy will.
VOCAL: HAPPINESS
19 Happiness
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FAVOURITE HYMN 15 Fav hymn
(To hear the audio file please right click mouse, then left click to open new tab Our contributor today is Joyce Simpson of Luton in Bedfordshire, (United Kingdom.)
Joyce says, “A hymn which means a lot to me is one written by Stanley Ditmer. It includes the words,
‘I shall not fear though darkened clouds may gather round me…… Chorus I'm in his hands, I'm in his hands, Whate’er the future holds, I'm in his hands, The days I cannot see Have all been planned for me, His way is best, you see; I'm in his hands.’ Whenever I've had to have tests-particularly MRI scans which I hate-or operations, I sing this over to myself and another chorus-
‘No never alone, No never alone, He promised he never would leave me, Never would leave me alone.’ These have meant a great deal of comfort.” Thank you, Joyce, for sharing your choice of music and thoughts with us today. We know you are unable to get out easily these days so we pray that hearing this particular hymn will bring you a special blessing. It’s a rather old recording, sung in that style so beloved in the 1950s. The soloist is Lawrence Mallyon who has long since passed to his eternal reward.

Music: 16 I'm in his hands
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1. I shall not fear though darkened clouds may gather round me;
The God I serve is one who cares and understands.
Although the storms I face would threaten to confound me,
Of this I am assured: I'm in his hands.

Chorus I'm in his hands, I'm in his hands;
Whate'er the future holds
I'm in his hands,
The days I cannot see
Have all been planned for me;
His way is best, you see;
I'm in his hands.

2. What though I cannot know the way that lies before me?
I still can trust and freely follow his commands;
My faith is firm since it is he that watches o'er me;
Of this I'm confident: I'm in his hands.

3. In days gone by my Lord has always proved sufficient,
When I have yielded to the law of love's demands;
Why should I doubt that he would evermore be present
To make his will my own? I'm in his hands!
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FAVOURITE HYMN FEATURE
19 Favourite hymn
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Our contributor is Paul Scoulding who is from Kent, UK.

My favourite hymn is one by Fanny Crosby, "He hideth my soul",

A wonderful saviour is Jesus my Lord, a wonderful saviour to me, He hideth my Soul in the cleft of a rock.

Wonderful words that even now move my soul to unimaginable feelings of love for my Saviour.

Some 5 years ago I was on my way to work when I was involved in a road traffic accident with a juggernaut lorry. My car was hit full on and completely wrecked but by God's grace I walked away without so much as a scratch. Even now I have trouble believing it. As the lorry hit, it spun my car round and flipped it over with such force the car rolled 5 or 6 times before coming to rest.

On impact the windows exploded showering me with glass, and I remember praying as the car rolled, "Lord I wasn't planning on dying today but I guess in a moment it's all going to go black and then I'll find myself in front of You".

I remember feeling no fear at all, but just an overwhelming sense of peace. The air bags did not deploy, and my seat belts never snapped on, but during it all I can only describe what felt like a firm but gentle arm holding me in place.

When the car finally stopped I was amazed to find I was still alive. I checked for injuries but there were none so my next thought was, "How do I get out of this car?".

It was obvious from what I could see that the car was completely smashed. It was only afterwards when I saw the scale of the damage I realised the only part of the car that wasn't damaged was the driver's side where I was. I then tried the door and to my amazement it opened and I got out. I immediately fell to my knees and thanked God.

The accident happened on the Friday, on the Sunday I was at home watching Charles Stanley on the God Channel. At the end of his broadcast he said, pointing at the camera, "When was the last time you got on your knees when you prayed? When you kneel before God amazing things happen".

I thought he was talking to me. In fact I looked around to see if anyone was behind me. On the Monday I was at home alone as my wife Wendy was at work. I was having my prayer time in my living room, and I remembered what Charles Stanley said, so I got on my knees and started to pray. As I was praying my thoughts were constantly being interrupted by a piece of scripture I'd read some weeks earlier. It was Exodus 33 where God was preparing Moses to lead the Israelites through the wilderness, and Moses pleaded with God to go with them. God finally relented and then Moses asked God to show him His glory, to which God agreed.

This amazed me and after I read it I remember thinking that this Moses has got some guts to speak to God like this. I then prayed and I said to God, "This Moses is a pretty amazing bloke, and if it's good enough for him, then it's good enough for me. As it happens I would like to see your glory". That I thought was the end of it. So this piece of scripture was constantly interrupting my thoughts, to the point where it was becoming frustrating. It was then that I heard a voice quite clearly. The voice said,
"Do you want to see my glory? Very well I'll show you".

The next second I was no longer in my living room, but standing by the side of the wreckage of my car. I know it was real. I reached out and touched it. Then God spoke again and said,
"When the lorry struck I kept you safe, I placed you in the cleft of the rock, and covered you with my hand".

I don't know how long I was there. The only thing I know was that I was in the presence of my God. I have never experienced anything like it in my life.

The next thing I know I was back in my living room, and all I could do was weep for what seemed an age, and worship God and thank Him for revealing Himself to me. God has changed my life and I am eternally grateful.
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FAVOURITE MUSIC
Introduction: 11 Intro Fav music
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Our contributor today is
Eunice Smith who lives in Spain.


“There are so many lovely pieces of music that it is hard for me to say that I have an actual favourite.  I suppose it really depends on where you are in life and the situation you are in.  Some years ago I was very privileged to take part in several Salvation Army musicals, one of which being ‘The Blood of the Lamb’.  The opening song was ‘Are you washed in the Blood of the Lamb?’ The words of the 3rd verse, when all the lights came up and everyone singing loud and clear were:-

 Lay aside the garments that are stained with sin
And be washed in the blood of the Lamb,
There’s a fountain flowing for the soul unclean
O be washed in the blood of the Lamb.

This evokes lovely memories of happy hours spent in fellowship with others, although perhaps not appreciating the words as much as I do now.

At the other end of the music spectrum and a favourite of mine at the moment is ‘God so loved the world’ from Stainer’s Crucifixion.  The small choir which I sing in at the church where I worship are currently rehearsing this and the words are very emotive. Although I have sung it many times before, I realise now it is fundamental in our Christian life to believe that God gave his only son to die for our sins.”


God so loved the world
God so loved the world
That he gave His only begotten Son
That whoso believeth, believeth in Him
Should not perish, should not perish,
But have everlasting life.
For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world
But that the world through Him might be saved.

Thanks so much, Eunice, for your thoughts today.

Music: FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD
12 God so loved the world
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