Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages is a hymn that brings back memories from my childhood. My family attended weekly services at a Methodist Church. We sang the “old hymns” every week. Rock of Ages became a family favorite. When both my parents passed away, this hymn was sung at both of their funerals.
During this Lenten Season, as I meditate in the stillness of early morning, I am drawn to reading Psalms. With Rock of Ages in mind, I find that “rock” is used over 20 times in the book of Psalms. Rock is a common biblical metaphor for God. God is our rock and he is always there for us. We can rely on Him to always be there for us, no matter what is going on in our life. (our Rock of Ages) The Psalms develop this metaphor further. Psalm 18:2 says The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. The thought is repeated in verse 31 and 46. The idea that God is the Rock of Ages means that He is steadfast and true, unmoving, unyielding, and does not change. Cleft for me comes from Exodus 33:22. God protects Moses from being consumed by His full glory when He puts Moses in the cleft of the rock- a place of protection and shelter.
The final verse is what makes Rock of Ages a perfect funeral hymn: “While I draw this fleeting breath, when mine eyes shall close in death, when I sore to worlds unknown, see thee on thy judgement throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee.” What a comfort knowing that I am secure in my faith in God, and I soon will see Him on the judgement throne. Jesus is my rock, my savior! Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
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Very good