Words and Music: Jack W. Hayford 1934-

“0 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!”

Psalm 8:1

Anytime we know the story behind a great hymn it is worth noting. What was the occasion for the poem that became a hymn poem? If we can know the cause which moved the writer to put pen to paper then it may well help us to identify with the personal or national situation at the time of the original poem. We do not have to know who wrote the lyrics or when and why the song made it into our hymnals in order to sing with understanding. But it might help. Of course we can and should make applications of the message of the song to our personal and current needs.

Most of us have been drawn to London and Great Britain in watching on TV the Summer Olympics from London. Of course there is always some emphasis on “Royalty” when we see anything from England. So today, let us consider the 1981 hymn MAJESTY.

Majesty, worship His Majesty,

Unto Jesus, be all glory, honor and praise!

Majesty, kingdom authority, flows from His throne,

Unto His own, His anthem raise.

So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus.

Magnify, come glorify Christ Jesus the King.

Majesty, worship His Majesty,

Jesus who died, now glorified,

King of all kings.

From the book, A Hymn a Day:

We know the motivation behind the writing of the song because the author has written about it. “In 1977, my wife Anna and I spent our vacation in Great Britain. We traveled through England, Scotland and Wales the same year that Queen Elizabeth celebrated the 25th anniversary of her coronation. There were many symbols of royalty.” Hayford said that the opening lyrics and melody came together as he was driving in Great Britain. He completed the song in California.

As for interpretation Jack Hayford gives his insight. ‘Majesty’ describes the kingly, lordly, glorious, regal nature of our savior. ‘Majesty’ recalls that our worship can align us with God and His throne and His kingdom. We are rescued from death, restored to the inheritance of sons and daughters, and qualified for victory in battle against the adversary, and destined for the throne forever in His presence.”

Prayer Focus: Please read Hebrews 1:3 and then pray.

From “A Hymn A Day” with permission from author, Graham McKay, and his comments preceding song words.

–Graham McKay lives in Spring Hill, TN