"I hear the savior say, thy strength indeed is small
Child of weakness, watch and pray, find in me thine all in all."
In my mind I saw a picture God had given to me in the past as he was bringing healing to a childhood memory. He had reminded me of a place where I felt safe as a child, under some trees in the corner of our backyard. At that time Jesus met me in that safe corner, picked me up as a child, and held me close as He looked in my eyes and conveyed his deep love without words. This song took me back to that image and reminded me that even as an adult my strength can be small at times, and in my weakness I can always find what I need in Him.
A week later, two of the songs brought images to my mind. As we sang "Cornerstone" I closed by eyes and saw Jesus on the cross while we sang:
"My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly trust in Jesus name
I saw Jesus with outstretched arms as on the cross, His blood flowing down. And then with the next line, "Christ alone; cornerstone" he moved his arms to a 45 degree angle to bear the weight of the church. As the church is built on one cornerstone, Christ, my hope, can be built on and entrusted to Him alone. Not even my sweetest friends' encouraging words can give the eternal hope that Jesus provides.
Soon, a new song came along to enrich my worship experience. This time I saw the name of Jesus, move letter by letter to encircle me in a swirling motion and surround me in protection as a mighty fortress. I felt this image was meant to show that God not only protects His church as a whole, but also each of us individually. The song? "A Mighty Fortress is Your Name".
"A mighty fortress is our God
A sacred refuge is Your Name..."
In writing this, I am noticing that each of these is a newer song using lyrics from a rich tradition of hymns. I guess they particularly speak to me by bringing the historical songs from my early faith years, together with added words and a new melody. I see great value in both--hymns that sing about the wonder and greatness of God and newer praise choruses that sing to Him.
I encourage you to listen to any of these songs or play some of your own favorites, whatever style you prefer, close your eyes and see what images come to your mind.
Jesus Paid it All -- Kristian Stafill https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfWgJRh4U4w
Cornerstone -- Hillsong https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvLxZEU02uI
A Mighty Fortress is Your Name -- Christy Nockels https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nT6qiTVhN0M