Rules

As a hymn writer, I sometimes feel as though I'm running across minefields of rules, many of which are very subjective and arbitrary but are treated as specially revealed moral absolutes by the person making the rules. There are a lot of rules running around, some with teeth. For example, the rule that some people have against vertically exclusive language has the effect, intended or not, of de-Personalizing God.

I will argue that another time. But may I suggest as a discussion starter that we look at the wealth of expression in the Book of Psalms. Here is the paradigm if there ever was one of how to write church music. And my o my is it ever broad in scope!! There are Psalms that say "we" and Psalms that say "me," Psalms that talk to God or about God or just about me or us in relationship to God.

My favorite, for some time now, is Psalm 145. It's an acrostic Psalm: i.e. the verses begin with the letters of the alphabet in order. This has the effect of formalizing the expression, and of beginning the tale anew with every verse or two. Sometimes the psalmist talks to God, sometimes about God. I find it very tender indeed.

1I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name for ever and ever.
2Every day I will bless you, and praise your name for ever and ever.
3Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable.
4One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
5On the glorious splendour of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
6The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, and I will declare your greatness.
7They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.
8The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9The Lord is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made.
10All your works shall give thanks to you,O Lord, and all your faithful shall bless you.
11They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and tell of your power,
12to make known to all people your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendour of your kingdom.
13Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations.
The Lord is faithful in all his words, and gracious in all his deeds.
14The Lord upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down.
15The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season.
16You open your hand, satisfying the desire of every living thing.
17The Lord is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings.
18The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19He fulfils the desire of all who fear him; he also hears their cry, and saves them.
20The Lord watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

21My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord, and all flesh will bless his holy name for ever and ever.