Really like this rendition, Herb. One of my favorite hymns. I like the arrangement, and the grittiness of your interpretation. I was familiar with the back story on this hymn, born out of severe tragedy, revealing great trust. It is a very humbling, yet inspiring song.

Bob Sorge wrote a book called Exploring Worship some time back. There is an interesting section about the contemporary styles of praise and worship. Here is a brief excerpt:

"A prominant American glergyman compiled the following ten reasons for opposing the new music trend of his day:
1. It's too new, like an unknown language.
2. It's not so melodious as the more established style.
3. There are so many new songs that it is impossible to learn them all.
4. This new music creates disturbances and causes people to act in an indecent and disorderly manner.
5. It places too much emphasis on instrumental music rather than on godly lyrics.
6. The lyrics are often worldly, even blasphemous.
7. It is not needed, since previous generations have gone to heaven without it.
8. It is a contrivance to get money.
9. It monopolizes the Christians' time and encourages them to stay out late.
10. These new musicians are young upstarts, and some of them are lewd and loose persons.

These ten reasons are adapted from a 1723 statement against the use of ---- hymns!"

So, even though my dad would not appreciate modern instrumentation/arrangement of this old hymn, I say - go for it! Give us some more!

Steve

Steve Young
Music
"In order to compose, all you need to do is remember a tune that nobody else has thought of." - Robert Schumann