Before the Throne of God Above

[HelenaZF]

Before the Throne of God Above

A beautiful hymn traditionally sung to the same tune as Sweet Hour of Prayer. But Vikki Cooks contemporary melody is so much more elegant and fitting of the powerful acclamations of the words of this  hymn.  I was reminded of it because it was included in our songlist this morning. I'm pleased to share it with you.  In the audio clip available, there is a bit too much rhythmic stuff happening for my taste.  I think a very straight treatment of the whole-tone melody is much more in keeping with the tenor and intent of the lyrics.

Beautiful word pictures capture your soul as you sing "my name is graven on His hands, my name is written on His heart..."  and the culminating declaration of "one with Himself I cannot die..."   brings up waves worship and overwhelming gratitude.

Contemporary Version: Written by:  Vikki Cook &  Charitie Lees Bancroft


Before the throne of God above,
I have a strong, a 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 heav'n He stands
no tongue can bid me thence depart.
No tongue can bid me thence depart.
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 to 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.
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 with 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
with Christ, my Savior and my God





Tradutional version:
Words: Charitie Bancroft, 1863. Music: William Bradbury, 1861.