BEHOLD THE THRONE OF GOD

During a Saturday evening church service last week, we sang an old, old hymn I had never heard before. As I intently focused on the meaning of the words, I was struck with wonder, thankfulness, and humility as I realized just how great God's love, mercy, and grace are.

The words to the hymn are below. It has been sung to the tune of Sweet Hour of Prayer. Meditate on the words. I pray anyone who reads this will be blessed by it and be drawn closer to the Lord.

WORDS BY CHARITIE L. BANCROFT - 1863

Before the throne of God above

I have a strong and perfect plea.

A great high Priest whose Name is Love

Who ever lives and pleads for me.

My name is graven on His hands,

My name is written on His heart.

I know that while in Heaven He stands

No tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair

And tells me of the guilt within,

Upward I look and see Him there

Who made an end of all my sin.

Because the sinless Savior died

My sinful soul is counted free.

For God the just is satisfied

To look on Him and pardon me.

Behold Him there the risen Lamb,

My perfect spotless righteousness,

The great unchangeable I AM,

The King of glory and of grace,

One in Himself I cannot die.

My soul is purchased by His blood,

My life is hid with Christ on high,

With Christ my Savior and my God!