Speaking of Hymns...

One of the things that is often overlooked by those involved in contemporary worship these days is the rich tradition of music left to us through the history of the church. This fact came back to me full force over the Christmas season, when I was reminded how many of the old standards in Christmas hymnody are unknown by the majority of today's non-denominational churchgoers -- especially the younger ones.

A friend sent me the words to this old hymn, which are a great example of the artistry found within many of the songs which have been left behind:

Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.

One problem is that most of us aren't used to language such as this anymore. It requires a lot of brain cells to think through the imagery and get to the heart of the message in the midst of engaging in worship.

Is there some way to practically and effectively bring back some of the depth and riches that may have been left behind?

Hmmm...