“Softly and Tenderly,” which was originally known as “Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling,” is a classic invitation hymn from the 19th century. The text was written, and the tune was composed by Will Thompson who was a composer of gospel, secular, and patriotic songs. This is a song which reminds us that we are saved by responding to the call of Jesus in the gospel to repent.

We have a great song this week form our past that is so special to our heritage. “Rock of Ages” is a Christian hymn written by Augustus M. Toplady, with music by Thomas Hastings. This very personal hymn uses pronouns such as “I and me” rather than “we and our” focusing on individual salvation, Rock of Ages

“Leave It There” is a song which strongly encourages us to cast our burdens upon the Lord and let him sustain us. The text was written, and the tune was composed both by Charles Tindley. Hymnologist James Abbington has called Tindley a “pastor, orator, poet, writer, theologian, social activist, ‘father of African American Hymnody,’ and ‘prince of preachers.’”

Today's song is one of three most widely used alter call songs. The hymn has a message of submission, and it is used as a song of response, invitation, dedication or commitment. It was written by Judson Van De Venter who lived on a farm near Dundee, Michigan. After school he went to Hillsdale College where he studied Art and became interested in music. We also continue our study of Heaven and what it will be like there.

We continue our series on "What's it going to be like in Heaven" with the song "Heaven of Rest" Written in 1889 by Henry Lake Gilmour who was born in the United Kingdom in 1836. This song pictures the sinner seeking a safe Harbor, and he presents the Lord Jesus Himself as that.

American evangelist Isaiah Martin wrote the words and produced the music to the hymn “Eastern Gate” in 1905. We look forward to the day when Jesus will come and we will be carried away to Heaven.

Clearly, Philip P. Bliss (1838-1876) knew exactly what he was doing with this text. He used his background as an educator to influence many generations of singers over the course of the last century and a half.

The hymn, “’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” was inspired by personal tragedy. One can imagine the questions that must have come to mind after the initial grief of this loss began to settle, perhaps the most difficult of those being, “Why?” While she may not have received the answer this side of heaven, Louisa did receive comfort in her pain. God’s sustaining power rescued her from drowning in her sorrows, and in His comfort she learned to trust in Him more and more.

Today we have a song I am sure you will want to hear about. It's a song by Isaac Watts in 1707 that helps us analyze our hearts as we look at the cross where the miracle of atonement through the sacrifice of our loving Savior took place. It is such a beautiful arrangement that moves through several keys both major and minor that sets the mood for this time of the year. The song is “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” for your enjoyment and inspiration.

Today we are looking at one of the first songs I learned to play with my Dad when I was in the 3rd grade. We had a space in the attic upstairs we called our music place. It was hot up there but dad would bring his guitar up there and teach me songs note at a time. Great memories of times with my wonderful Dad playing Whispering Hope