WHITER THAN SNOW

With the historic weather we are having in Lancaster County, almost everyone is talking about snow. Most are tired of shoveling and being snowed in. We shudder when we hear predictions of even more snow. But we also have to admit that it is beautiful, especially when it is pure white, newly fallen, and undisturbed by humans. I've often wondered if King David ever actually saw snow, but after he had committed adultery he prays for forgiveness and cleansing. And in verse 7 of Psalm 51 he says "Cleanse me with hyssop and I will be clean; wash me and I will be whiter than snow." He knew that only the Lord could cleanse his sin and make him pure, whiter than snow. Numerous hymn writers have picked up on this theme. One of those was James L. Nicholson, a native of Ireland. He came to America around the age of 25 and lived in Philadelphia for almost two decades. Around 1871 he moved to Washington DC and worked there as a clerk in the Post Office Department. We really don't know much more about him, but in 1872 he penned the words to this week's hymn. We can only assume that Nicholson, like David and countless others, recognized the need to seek the Lord for forgiveness and cleansing, to be made whiter than snow. And he also knew that when one seeks this cleansing, the Lord will never say no. Maybe this old hymn shares a need that we all have. Meditate on these words.

1. Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole;

I want Thee forever to live in my soul.

Break down every idol, cast out every foe

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow

2. Lord Jesus, look down from Your throne in the skies

And help me to make a complete sacrifice.

I give up myself and whatever I know

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow

3. Lord Jesus, for this I most humbly entreat;

I wait, blessed Lord, at Thy crucified feet.

By faith, for my cleansing I see Your blood flow

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow

4. Lord Jesus, before You I patiently wait;

Come now and within me a new heart create.

To those who have sought You, You never said "No"

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow

You can listen to this selection here. LISTEN