The Father's Love
There are certain hymns that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of believers throughout the generations. I think of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms," a hymn that held a special place in the Baptist Hymnal—if I remember correctly, it was hymn number 333 in the old edition. And of course, many of us can easily recall timeless hymns such as "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," "Blessed Assurance," "Holy, Holy, Holy," "Jesus Loves Me," and "Just as I Am." These hymns have become woven into the fabric of our faith communities, not just for their melodies but for the deep, spiritual truths they express.
Each hymn, like a prayer or an outpouring of the heart, was inspired by its writer's personal spiritual journey. Often, a specific verse of Scripture, an answer to prayer, or a powerful sermon prompted the penning of these timeless songs. They reflect experiences of grace, redemption, and hope, grounded in the Word of God and shared with the Church for the edification of all.
As we prepare for our time of worship this Sunday, with a special focus on The Lord's Supper, we will be guided by a hymn that may be "newer" compared to those beloved classics but is no less impactful: "How Deep the Father's Love for Us." Written in 1995 by British songwriter Stuart Townend, this hymn quickly became a favorite in Christian worship. Though modern by hymn standards, its rich theological depth connects it to the great hymns of old.
Stuart Townend was born in 1963 in West Yorkshire, England, and has significantly influenced contemporary Christian music. He is known for blending profound theological truths with simple, worshipful melodies that draw believers into reflection and praise. Townend's hymns, including "In Christ Alone" (written with Keith Getty) and "The Power of the Cross," have been embraced by churches around the world. His songs resonate because they remind us of the gravity of the Gospel and lead us into deeper reflection on the person and work of Christ.
Townend’s background is rooted in the traditions of the Anglican Church—his father was an Anglican vicar—and this connection to church history and classic hymnody is evident in his work. However, his contemporary music is steeped in timeless biblical themes, particularly the atonement, grace, and the cross of Christ.
"How Deep the Father's Love for Us" was written during a period of renewal in Christian worship music, when there was a growing desire to reintroduce hymns with strong theological content. In a time when many worship songs leaned toward emotional expression, Townend sought to recapture a deeper reflection on the weight of Christ’s sacrifice. This hymn stands out for its simplicity of melody and profound depth of meaning.
The lyrics of "How Deep the Father's Love for Us" focus on the central act of the Christian faith—the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. The hymn meditates on the themes of God’s love, the atoning sacrifice of Christ, and personal reflection on sin and redemption:
God’s profound love for humanity: "How vast beyond all measure!”
The atoning sacrifice of Christ: "That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure.”
Personal reflection on sin and redemption: "It was my sin that held Him there until it was accomplished."
Townend has shared in interviews that he wrote the hymn to help believers meditate on the significance of the cross—its agony, its victory, and the overwhelming love of God demonstrated through it. He was particularly inspired by the imagery in Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant who bore the sins of many, and by Romans 5:8, where Paul writes, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (NIV).
The hymn captures the paradox of the cross—both the unimaginable agony of Christ’s suffering and the glorious victory it brings to those who believe. It challenges us to move beyond surface-level worship and into deeper contemplation of the profound spiritual truths of the Gospel.
As we gather this Sunday and celebrate the Lord's Supper together, I encourage you to reflect on the powerful words of Townend's hymn. Allow the lyrics to guide your thoughts and prayers as we come before the Lord, mindful of His great sacrifice.
How Deep the Father's Love for Us
Verse 1:
How deep the Father's love for us, How vast beyond all measure! That He should give His only Son, To make a wretch His treasure. How great the pain of searing loss! The Father turns His face away; As wounds which marred the Chosen One Bring many sons to glory.
Verse 2:
Behold the man upon a cross, My sin upon His shoulders; Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice Call out among the scoffers. It was my sin that held Him there Until it was accomplished; His dying breath has brought me life: I know that it is finished.
Verse 3:
I will not boast in anything: No gifts, no power, no wisdom; But I will boast in Jesus Christ: His death and resurrection. Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer; But this I know with all my heart: His wounds have paid my ransom.
Join us this Sunday as we sing this hymn, pray together, read Scripture, and partake in the Lord’s Supper. Together, we will reflect on the depth of the Father’s love, expressed most fully through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As we come to the table, may our hearts be filled with gratitude and awe for the grace and mercy shown to us at the cross.
God's blessing on His family of faith here at Union Avenue Baptist Church. Let us worship together with reverence and joy.