Hail the Day!

The presentation of a hymn by Charles Wesley almost always begs explanation. This most prolific of English hymn writers (over 6,000 known hymns and poems) is by default also the most edited of our hymn writers. The beloved "O for a thousand tongues to sing" is a case in point. In fact, it is the case that most often makes the point: our hymnal's 5 stanzas are selected from the 17 that Wesley published, and even at that the stanzas we know as "O for a thousand tongues" do not appear in that order in the original poem.

No, Charles Wesley could be the chief witness against hymnal editors. "Look what they've done to my song!" And not just the order of stanzas, but over time and in many ways for many reasons, his words have been changed, up-dated, put through theological filters, and yet presented as his own. (Sometimes, but not always, with the subtle acknowledgement, alt.) Still, for those of us on the other side of these decisions, the clarity and simplicity and force of his texts still ring through and ring true. The disciplined biblicism and robust theology and clear thinking and passionate experience continue to stir our devotion and our praise.

So, when we look at Charles Wesley's Ascension Hymn (written as such) it is only fair to acknowledge that what we sing and what he wrote do not always neatly line up. For one thing, the "Alleluias" are editorial tropes, perhaps added to allow the core text to work with a given tune, specifically the Welsh tune LLANFAIR. (Warning: only click the link to the tune if you can stand cheesy electronic piano/organ sounds!)

Given its presence in Hymns for the Living Church, I will begin the hymn with Alleluias. In the interest of space, and for the sake of seeing the text more or less as Wesley intended, will then continue without them. I rather like the Alleuluias, as noted earlier because they are the Easter acclamation, and certainly are fitting for the occasion of Jesus' ascension to the right hand of the Father. Indeed, it is on the basis of that great work on our behalf that we have the certain faith to say, "alleluia - praise the Lord!"

Hail the day that sees him rise, Alleluia!
To his throne above the skies; Alleluia!
Christ, the Lamb for sinners given, Alleluia!
Enters now the highest heaven, Alleluia!
    There for him high triumph waits;
    lift your heads, eternal gates.
    He has conquered death and sin;
    take the King of glory in.
See, he lifts his hands above!
See, he shows the prints of love!
Hark! His gracious lips bestow
blessings on his church below.
    Lord, beyond  our mortal sight,
    raise our hearts to reach thy height;
    there thy face unclouded see,
    find our heaven of heavens in thee!

Charles Wesley (1739)

Tomorrow, May 13, is the 40th day following Resurrection Sunday: Ascension Day. Rejoice!

Sing on!