Ode to Joy

And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; It shall rejoice in His salvation.  Psalm 35:9

Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; Drive the dark of doubt away
Giver of immortal gladness, Fill us with the light of day!

All Thy works with joy surround Thee, earth and heaven reflect Thy rays.
Stars and angels sing around Thee, Center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain, Flowery meadow, flashing sea
Chanting bird and flowing fountain Call us to rejoice in Thee

Thou art giving and forgiving, Ever blessing ever blest,
Well spring of the joy of living Ocean depths of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother All who live in love are Thine.
Teach us how to love each other; Lift us to the joy divine

Mortals, join the mighty chorus Which the morning stars began
Love divine is reigning o'er us, Leading us with mercy's hand.
Ever singing march we onward, Victors in the midst of strife
Joyful music leads us sunward in the triumph song of life!

This poem was written by Henry van Dyke, the music by Beethoven, melody from Ninth Symphony.

My youngest daughter played the piano during her elementary years in school. I have two favorite songs that I would make her play on the piano every time she practiced and this is one of them. As she played, I thanked God for the gift He blessed her with and enjoyed the music immensely. You can only imagine the numerous times the same songs were played over and over by my request. Having to hear the songs now it brings memories of her sitting on the piano, working very diligently. (Thanks, Jen!) It makes me think of our relationship that we have now and the joy that it gives me, especially the times on the phone and the short times we get to spend together. I praise God for the relationship that I have with my children.

Last Sunday they played this beautiful song during worship service. As I sang to the Lord and meditated on the words it made me reflect on the goodness of God. The almighty God bestows joy to His children with an abundance of richness in His fellowship.

I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. Psalm119:14

Glory to God!

Sandra Valdes
Staff Member - WOC Graduate