We have all heard the joyful sound: Jesus saves! I love singing this hymn of triumph and praise to our Savior. It's a new year, and it's a new chance to sing with meaning and purpose the hymns we can so easily sing without regard to their words. Here are the lyrics for the hymn:
1. We have heard the joyful sound:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to ev'ry land,
Climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! 'tis our Lord's command;
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
2. Waft it on the rolling tide:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Tell to sinners far and wide:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Sing, ye islands of the sea;
Echo back, ye ocean caves;
Earth shall keep her jubilee:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
3. Sing above the battle strife:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
By His death and endless life:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Sing it softly through the gloom,
When the heart for mercy craves;
Sing in triumph o'er the tomb:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
4. Give the winds a mighty voice: Jesus saves! Jesus saves! Let the nations now rejoice: Jesus saves! Jesus saves! Shout salvation full and free, Highest hills and deepest caves; This our song of victory: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
About the Author
Our author this month is Priscilla J. Owens, who was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1907. She wrote poetry and prose works of many different styles, including this jubilant anthem. She taught a Sunday school for over 50 years, during which time she wrote the majority of her hymns for her students to sing.
Citations
https://play.hymnswithoutwords.com/people/priscilla-jane-owens-1829-1899/
A Few Thoughts...
I couldn't find very much on this author; so, instead, I would like to highlight a key principle her work brings out. Priscilla Owens realized the importance of singing doctrine in quality music, even in Sunday school. I believe this is so important. Music is a powerful language and has the ability to engraft itself into the memory and the mind. What do we want our church kids to remember when they leave Sunday school, doctrine (albeit taught simply, but clearly), or just fun rhymes? Don't get me wrong. In no way am I suggesting that kids shouldn't have a blast in Sunday school. But I also realize the importance of teaching kids biblical truths that will help them in their walk with their Savior. Even kids can have an amazing relationship with the Lord, and a big part of that is godly music from which they can learn more about their loving, amazing Creator.