ANCIENT WORDS

          Among all the books ever written, the Bible is absolutely unique. Actually, it is not just a book - it's 66 books. And one of its most remarkable qualities is the complete unity of the overall message despite having forty authors who wrote from three continents over nearly two thousand years.  It maintains a perfect consistency of message.  Its words point unerringly to Christ, whose work on the cross was ordained by God - the true author of the Bible - before the world began.   And while God inspired these authors to pen these words centuries ago, these "ancient words" are still as relevant and powerful today as when they were first written.  And over the years they have survived numerous attacks to destroy them and discredit them.  "Ancient words ever true, changing me and changing you. We have come with open hearts, Oh, let the ancient words impart."  This modern hymn was written by Lynn Deshazo, although many people have attributed it to Michael W Smith who actually popularized it.  DeShazo is a well known author of some of the Church's most loved worship songs, such as "More Precious Than Silver," "Lead Me to the Rock," "Turn My Heart," "Be Magnified," "Be Unto Your Name," "Stand Up and Give Him the Praise," "In Your Presence, O God."  DeShazo has written over 350 songs in a career spanning over 30 years.  She shared the following comments about the writing of this hymn. "I have a couple of songs that were written because the idea was so compelling to me, it wouldn't go away. "Ancient Words" is one of those songs. The longer I walk with the Lord, the more love and appreciation I have for the Bible and for those whom God has used throughout the ages to make it available to me. I suppose that was the true impetus for my writing it."   Reflect upon the words of this contemporary hymn this week as you thank God for His love letter to us.  And may we all be challenged to spend more time reading, meditating and obeying God's Word in the coming days.

1.   Holy words long preserved

For our walk in this world

They resound with God's own heart

Oh, let the ancient words impart

Words of Life, words of Hope

Give us strength, help us cope

In this world, where e'er we roam

Ancient words will guide us home

Ancient words ever true

Changing me and changing you

We have come with open hearts

Oh, let the ancient words impart

2.    Holy words of our Faith

Handed down to this age

Came to us through sacrifice

Oh heed the faithful words of Christ

Holy words long preserved

For our walk in this world

They resound with God's own heart

Oh let the ancient words impart

Ancient words ever true

Changing me and changing you

We have come with open hearts

Oh, let the ancient words impart

We have come with open hearts

Oh, let the ancient words impart

Listen to it here.    ANCIENT