How Great Thou Art was written in 1886 by Swedish pastor, Carl Boberg. It was later translated into English and set to music by Stuart K. Hine in 1899.
It has been said that Boberg was inspired to write this text during a retreat to a country estate on the southeast coast of Sweden. While enjoying the beautiful countryside, suddenly there came a midday thunderstorm of lightning flashes and loud thunder claps. Over the course of the afternoon he watched the powerful storm subside, giving way to brilliant beams of sunlight. It wasn't long before the birds were singing a sweet melody in the trees. The array of awesome wonders brought Boberg to his knees in humble adoration. His God is mighty, and powerful, and great above all!
I have a feeling all of us, at some point, have had a similar experience of "Awestruck wonder" that caused us to meditate on the absolute greatness, might, and power of God. When God reveals Himself this way, the reality of His nearness strikes us: He is all around!
I remember a time when Amanda and I were tubing down the Frio River with a group of friends, we were just floating along when the Lord's absolute power and majesty gripped me! I looked up at the massive cliffs running along the river, appearing as if they were colored by a brushstroke of sandy brown colors. The trees upon the cliffs danced as the wind softly caressed their branches. The sunlight reflecting off the rippling water was breathtaking.
The glory of the Lord revealed through His creation ought to bring us to our knees in "humble adoration." Let us remember our great God as we gather to worship Him Sunday. May we be zealous to praise in word & song, eager to pray to the God of all creation.
Looking forward to worshipping with you,
Joseph