I had high hopes this might be a replacement for “How Great Thou Art”, to which I have an illogical aversion – it screams kitsch to me but is much loved by many.
This text is by Michael Saward, based on Luke 1:46-55. Saward had an interesting life with many trials. The words are set to JERUSALEM by Charles Hubert Hastings Parry – goodness CWB did not use a songwriter’s full name this time.
… and what a fine tune it is, except that the range is severe and it has become associated with jingoistic Englishmen. Consider it a stirring choir piece.
A lot of Saward’s songs are at Jubilate, but not this one. CWB says the copyright is to Michael Parry, which may be a mistake because it has the first name of the lyricist and the last name of the composer. It is more likely Michael Perry the editor of the book Carols for Today, in which this song appears. I can find no other trace of it, apart from CWB.
I made a backing based on the chords in TIS.
1 Now sing my soul, “How great the Lord!” Rejoice my spirit, in your God.
My Saviour who has looked on me, a humble servant in his sight.
Forever after, I’ll be known as happiest of the human race;
The mighty one has dealt with me and holy, holy is his name.
2 Throughout all ages, those who fear his majesty shall know his grace;
His powerful works disclose his might, he routs the the arrogant of heart.
From thrones great rulers have been torn yet humble men are raised on high;
the hungry have been satisfied while rich men lack and creep away.
3 To Israel, servant of the Lord, comes yet again the promised hope:
In Abraham and all his sons, God’s mercy ever shall endure.
Give glory then to God above, give praise to Christ, his only Son;
Give thanks for all the Spirit’s power, both now and through eternity!
This clip on Facebook credits the tunesmith but not the wordsmith: