Thursday, July 04, 2019

HYMN update: Pay Heed, O Earthly Powers

Last week I posted an early draft of a text for the Twenty-Third Sunday After Trinity called Pay Heed, O Earthly Powers. I had some misgivings about the text as it originated; so, as I always do, I posted my text and asked for feedback. I received some, and it helped me tighten things up. I combined verses to double their length and combine their thoughts. In doing so, I determined that I should add a few thoughts, emphasize a few thoughts with some repetition. A friend composed an original tune. What's posted here is the result. I encourage you compare the original text to this one, and then to offer feedback. Feedback is the lifeblood of the writer; feedback is love. 

The subject matter of this text is especially appropriate for today, as the United States celebrates Independence Day. I'm sure my friends who are citizens of the British Empire (such as it is) have some thoughts on the matter. *wink*



Pay Heed, O Earthly Powers


1. Pay heed, O earthly powers!
You citizens, give ear!
The King of kings has spoken;
The Lord of hosts is here.
Though citizens of heaven,
As pilgrims here you roam.
Serve God and serve the nation
Until He calls you home.

2. Give all you owe to Caesar.
All honor he is due,
For all who wield the scepter 
Are God’s good gift to you.
Obey the godless ruler
As you would Christ the King.
Your service brings true glory
To Him whom angels sing.

3. Yet when, with tyrant fury,
The chief demands you sin,
You must obey your Savior,
Though torment may begin.
Pray God for righteous princes
Who seek the good of all,
Who serve without corruption,
Repenting when they fall.

4. And render to your Father
What you in faith receive:
The righteousness of Jesus
By which God’s children live.
Sing praise to Christ, you people:
To Christ whom you revere.
Repent before your Savior
And kneel in holy fear.

5. Until that Day of glory
When Christ returns to reign,
Give honor to the nation;
Subdue your own disdain.
Pay heed, O earthly powers!
You citizens, give ear!
The King of kings has spoken;
The Lord of hosts is here.


© 2019 Alan Kornacki, Jr.
76 76D (search that meter in the hymnal or…)
Tune (pictured below): PAY HEED (ALT.)
Occasion: Trinity 23; The Nation




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