Title: Learning to Love and Follow: A Reflection on a Timeless Hymn
Introduction
In the world of hymns and spiritual songs, there are some that stand the test of time, touching the hearts of generations and inspiring reflection on our own lives and values. One such hymn is "Savior, May I Learn to Love Thee," penned by Sally DeFord. Its verses are simple yet profound, carrying a message of love, empathy, and self-improvement that transcends religious boundaries and resonates with people from all walks of life. Let's delve into the meaning and significance of this timeless hymn.
Verse 1: Learning to Love and Follow
"Savior, may I learn to love thee,
Walk the path that thou hast shown,
Pause to help and lift another,
Finding strength beyond my own.
Savior, may I learn to love thee—
Lord, I would follow thee."
The first verse invites us to contemplate the concept of learning to love and follow in the footsteps of a higher ideal, personified here as the Savior. It encourages us to not only embrace a path of righteousness but to actively help and uplift others. The verse recognizes that we may need strength beyond our own to accomplish this, emphasizing the importance of relying on something greater than ourselves.
Verse 2: Non-Judgment and Imperfection
"Who am I to judge another
When I walk imperfectly?
In the quiet heart is hidden
Sorrow that the eye can't see.
Who am I to judge another?
Lord, I would follow thee."
The second verse calls for humility and self-awareness. It reminds us that we all have imperfections and hidden sorrows, making it unwise to pass judgment on others. By acknowledging our own flaws and limitations, we open ourselves up to greater empathy and understanding. This verse reinforces the idea that following the path of love and kindness involves accepting others as they are, just as we hope to be accepted ourselves.
Verse 3: Becoming Our Brother's Keeper
"I would be my brother's keeper;
I would learn the healer's art.
To the wounded and the weary
I would show a gentle heart.
I would be my brother's keeper—
Lord, I would follow thee."
In the third verse, the hymn encourages us to become caretakers of one another, embodying the role of a "keeper" for our fellow human beings. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring the "healer's art" – the ability to mend emotional and spiritual wounds. By showing a gentle heart to those who are wounded and weary, we become active agents of love and compassion in the world.
Verse 4: Love for Our Brothers
"Savior, may I love my brother
As I know thou lovest me,
Find in thee my strength, my beacon,
For thy servant I would be.
Savior, may I love my brother—
Lord, I would follow thee."
The final verse beautifully encapsulates the hymn's core message – to love one another as the Savior loves us. It encourages us to find our strength and guidance in this love, making us willing servants in the service of others. It reminds us that love is not just a feeling but a powerful force that can shape our actions and inspire us to follow a path of kindness and selflessness.
Conclusion
"Savior, May I Learn to Love Thee" is a hymn that transcends religious boundaries, touching the hearts of people from all walks of life. Its verses remind us of the importance of love, empathy, humility, and self-improvement. They call us to be better individuals, to extend a helping hand to those in need, and to follow a path of love and compassion. In a world often marked by division and judgment, this hymn serves as a timeless reminder of the values that unite us as humans – the values of love and kindness.
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