In The Darkness, Praise!

A triumphant hymn of hope

Photo by Grant Whitty on Unsplash

Sometimes it takes weeks of painful toil.

Sometimes you pick up an old bit of paper and see a scribbled outline from four months ago, feverishly tappity tap away until you have a finished hymn.

You step back.

You consider it.

And you realise…

…It’s actually really good.

Sing this one to the marvelous tune of “Christ the Lord is Risen Today!”

We sing it to Easter Hymn (Lyra Davidica) but Llanfair works well too.

In the darkness of the void, Alleluia!
When the earth no form enjoyed, Alleluia!
God the Lord commanded light. Alleluia!
Praise the Lord of day and night! Alleluia!

In the darkness at the cross, Alleluia!
Christ our Lord there suffered loss, Alleluia!
Sun itself there veiled its face, Alleluia!
Praise the Lord who took our place! Alleluia!

In the darkness of the grave, Alleluia!
He himself, he did not save, Alleluia!
Bursting forth, he breaks the chains, Alleluia!
Praise the Lord who vict'ry gains! Alleluia!

In the darkness of our lives, Alleluia!
When against us Satan strives, Alleluia!
When we feel the pain of night, Alleluia!
Praise the Lord who promised light! Alleluia!

In eternal light one day, Alleluia!
All the ransomed souls shall say, Alleluia!
Nevermore will darkness rise, Alleluia!
Praise the Lord with endless cries! Alleluia!

Whatever darkness you are under, praise him!