The King of Love

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about hymns that I enjoy and love playing on the harp. 

In my last post here, I shared my favorite hymn: 

“My Shepherd Will Supply My Need”

That made me think of another hymn I love, one that I enjoy playing as a medley with that hymn:

 “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” 

Sometimes, this hymn is just simply titled:

 “The King of Love”

I played those two hymns as a medley on my first harp recording titled:

“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus”

The lyrics to both hymns are similar in that they are both based on Psalm 23. And although they are different, the melodies to both hymns have a similar, melodic feel to them. 

In a broken world filled with so much sadness, sorrow, and care, both hymns bring a sweet, soothing balm to the heart. 

Our God is a God of love. That is the very essence of His nature and character. That is who God is. 

“… For God is love.” 

1 John 4:8 

There is a video on YouTube of this lovely hymn played on harp and flute with orchestra and choir. 

Click the link below to listen.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6ea7VFyn9to

Our God is a good Father, and a good Shepherd, One who loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die so we could be brought back to Him. 

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”

John 10:11 

Consider these beautiful lyrics: 

The King of love my shepherd is, 

whose goodness faileth never. 

I nothing lack if I am his, 

and he is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow, 

my ransomed soul he leadeth; 

and where the verdant pastures grow, 

with food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish, oft I strayed, 

but yet in love he sought me; 

and on his shoulder gently laid, 

and home, rejoicing, brought me.

In death's dark vale I fear no ill, 

with thee, dear Lord, beside me; 

thy rod and staff my comfort still, 

thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spreadst a table in my sight; 

thy unction grace bestoweth; 

and oh, what transport of delight 

from thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days, 

thy goodness faileth never; 

Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise 

within thy house forever. 

~ Henry William Baker