The Presbyterian Hymnal: Hymns, Psalms, and Spiritual Songs

486

When the Morning Stars Together

1.  When the morning stars together
    Their Creator's glory sang,
    And the angel host all shouted
    Till with joy the heavens rang,
    Then Your wisdom and Your greatness
    Their exultant music told,
    All the beauty and the splendor
    Which Your mighty works unfold.

2.  When in synagogue and temple
    Voices raised the psalmists' songs,
    Offering the adoration
    Which alone to You belongs,
    When the singers and the cymbals
    With the trumpet made accord,
    Glory filled the house of worship,
    And all knew Your presence, Lord.

3.  Voice and instrument in union
    Through the ages spoke Your praise,
    Plain-song, tuneful hymns, and anthems
    Told Your faithful, gracious ways.
    Choir and orchestra and organ
    Each a sacred offering brought,
    While, inspired by Your own Spirit,
    Poet and composer wrought.

4.  Lord, we bring our gift of music;
    Touch our lips and fire our hearts,
    Teach our minds and train our senses,
    Fit us for these sacred arts.
    Then with skill and consecration
    We would serve You, Lord, and give
    All our powers to glorify You,
    And in serving fully live.

WORDS: Albert F. Bayly, 1969;
MUSIC: alt.As in Tochter Sion, Cologne, 1741
Scripture: 2 Chronicles 5:13-14 Job 38:7
Theme: Morning and Opening Hymns