We start our day singing; worshiping Him through hymns.
The idea that these words were sung by different generations, in another time, add to its depth and beauty. Worshiping through music prepares the heart. Instead of rushing on with breakfast, I’d like to start with melodies for Him.
The idea that these words were sung by different generations, in another time, add to its depth and beauty. Worshiping through music prepares the heart. Instead of rushing on with breakfast, I’d like to start with melodies for Him.
Singing these old words while my kids listened, with our bowls of cheerios and milk, felt awkward at first. It is something I’ve never done with them. But as I sang the 2 stanzas and approached the end, my 4 year old son suddenly joined me in singing the “Amen” part.
Just like in memorizing bible verses and poetry, I don’t force my children to learn hymns. Nor do I make them memorize by rote. I try to create an atmosphere and sing it, in hopes that they will join in. I want them to have a relationship with these words.
I chose the hymn “Be Present at Our Table, Lord” which was written by John Cennick in the year 1741.
Be present at our table, Lord;
Be here and everywhere adored;
Thy creatures bless, and grant that we
May feast in fellowship with Thee.
Be here and everywhere adored;
Thy creatures bless, and grant that we
May feast in fellowship with Thee.
We thank Thee, Lord, for this our food,
For life and health and every good;
By Thine own hand may we be fed;
Give us each day our daily bread.
Amen.
Within a week, my son starts joining in. He sings the first words and hums to the rest while my daughter “dances” to its rhythm and melody. He then starts singing it while taking a bath or when doodling. A few more weeks and he will know the words by heart. All for His glory.
This one edited the original words but it is how we sing it. Listen here.
I did not grow up singing hymns and I only know 2 or 3. Any recommended hymns? What are you singing with your kids?
