ABIDE WITH ME

Dearly Beloved, ABIDE WITH ME “And they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is now far spent. And he went in to abide with them” (Luke 24:29 ASV). One of English favourite hymns is “ABIDE WITH ME” composed by Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847), an Anglican clergyman who served nearly half his life as vicar of a church at Brixham, England. According to history, Lyte composed the hymn on the afternoon of the Sun¬day he gave his fare¬well ser¬mon in the par¬ish he served so ma¬ny years. It was as if he was prepared to die that day as he battled the deadly disease of tu¬ber¬cu¬lo¬sis. He died few weeks later. The hymn is lovely in both language and sentiment. However, it seems odd that a hymn about death could become as popular as this one. On closer reflection on the hymn, the reason seems clear because the hymn speaks to us, not only about death, but also about life. It assures us of God's presence and help in life and in death. The hymn is a hymn of hope in God who can abide with one in whatever situation even when all hope is lost and seemingly earthly helpers fail to help. The hymn is a hymn of peace and comfort. The world may be unstable and unreliable, but the hymn reassures us that the unchangeable God will abide with us. The hymn reminds us of the need for the presence and grace of God in every passing hour. These can foil the power of the devil. Because the Lord is there to abide with us and bless us, there is no need of fear of any foe, sickness or even death. In spite of his deteriorating health, Henry Francis Lyte could compose this inspiring hymn because he had put his trust in God. He was ready to die because he had surrendered his life to God and allowed Him to abide with him. The two disciples on the way to Emmaus invited Jesus Christ to abide with them, and they experienced Him more (see Luke 24:28-35). Only those who put their trust in God and invite Him to abide with them can enjoy His presence and grace both in life and in death. Such people will be able to say like Apostle Paul, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21 ASV). Lord, abide with me! In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Pray that the Lord will help you to allow Him in your life to abide with you so that you can experience His presence and grace both in life and in death.