O Lord My Rock And My Redeemer

O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Greatest treasure of my longing soul
My God, like You there is no other
True delight is found in You alone
Your grace, a well too deep to fathom
Your love exceeds the heavens’ reach
Your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom
My highest good and my unending need

I heard this song for the first time this week. It has the content and comfort of an old hymn and the freshness of a new song.

It’s God-centred, using familiar Biblical images of God as rock, redeemer, treasure, defender, sword, shield… each giving aspects of God’s character worthy of pause and muse.

This God comes to me again today, bringing his grace, love, truth, wisdom, and faithfulness. He’s there for me when life is tough, in sadness, difficulties, weakness and failure. He’s my first and last source of comfort, security and strength.

O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Strong defender of my weary heart
My sword to fight the cruel deceiver
And my shield against his hateful darts
My song when enemies surround me
My hope when tides of sorrow rise
My joy when trials are abounding
Your faithfulness, my refuge in the night

The song takes me back to Jesus. The Jesus of cross, tomb and resurrection, of suffering, death and life, of sacrifice, redemption and victory.

I finish the song. My spirit, intellect and emotions have been engaged; I’m stronger in my faith; I have a fresh sense of joy, hope and gratitude; I’m convinced of and committed to the God who is my Rock and my Redeemer.

O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Gracious Saviour of my ruined life
My guilt and cross laid on Your shoulders
In my place You suffered bled and died
You rose, the grave and death are conquered
You broke my bonds of sin and shame
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
May all my days bring glory to Your Name