Gathered

Written in 1929 by Norwegian Svein Ellingsen, the following hymn was provided with a new tune by Norwegian composer Egil Hovland in 1988, revised in 1993 anticipating the 1994 Winter Olympics in Oslo and given the tune name OLYMPIC HYMN.

It is an example of a hymn which, in the absence of any explicit reference to Jesus, can be put to work for a variety of purposes. As you read the text, you might for example see how apt an expression it could be for the winter games!

But it is a deeply Christian hymn, used in the church now for several generations. And for Christians who sing it, there is much to embrace about its message. We have used it here at College Church, in missions conferences. Why do I post it today? Well, it happens to be the next hymn up in my review for a project I'm working on. Hey, it works for me ...

Gathered in God's presence in fellowship and gladness,
let us sing our praises and pray for all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered in God's stillness, away from strife and unrest,
we may share the brightness of hope with all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered at God's altar and in the Spirit's presence
we may share the calling to go to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.
Gathered 'round God's calling we shall, as faithful servants,
bear the flame now kindled as light to all the nations.
Gathered in God's presence, gathered in his peace,
see a torch of promise lit within this place.

Svein Ellingsen (1929), trans. Hedda Durnbaugh

 

In his book, Let the Nations Be Glad, John Piper says "Missions exists because worship does not." That is to say, God is seeking worshipers, and the circle of true worshipers grows as the Gospel is spread through missions and evangelism.

 

Many are the stories of the missionary call coming in the context of worship. This is one thrust of today's hymn. But our worship itself has, and is meant to have, an evangelistic impact. So, St. Paul, speaking of worship done decently and in order, in the context of the vibrant sharing of the gifts of the Spirit, says: if ... an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you. (1 Cor. 14:24-25)

 

For the sake of the Gospel and the conversion of those who worship with us,

 

Sing on!