Fred’s back, with another Eastertide hymn that isn’t actually an Easter hymn. This one was published in 1904, and set to a 19th century English tune called Lancashire.
To be clear: I really like this hymn text. And I love that Hosmer thought to include Passover in his text. And even more, I used this as the title of my 2015 Easter sermon. I love that Hosner’s words focus on joy and life eternal.
O day of light and gladness, of prophecy and song,
what thoughts within us waken, what hallowed mem’ries throng!
The soul’s horizon widens, past, present, future blend;
and rises on our vision the life that has no end.Earth feels the season’s joyance; from mountain range to sea
the tides of life are flowing, fresh, manifold, and free.
In valley and on upland, by forest pathways dim,
all nature lifts in chorus the resurrection hymn.O Dawn of life eternal, to thee our hearts up-raise
the Easter song of gladness, the Passover of praise.
Thine are the many mansions, the dead die not to thee,
who fillest from thy fullness time and eternity.
I also know that members of the congregation I’ve been serving feel like they can access the Easter message in this hymn without having to be invested in the Resurrection… which I call a win.
I know this one will feature in my upcoming conversation with Michael Tino (tentatively scheduled for Wednesday – look for a Hymn by Hymn Extra) – because I know I have questions about how we treat a central part of Christianity, and I know Michael has opinions. In the meantime, sing away – this one’s joyful and a bit of an earworm.
