Tricia and I traveled recently to Monterrey to participate in the semi-annual "vision trip" hosted by Mission to the World Team Leader, Andres Garza, and Team Northern Mexico. These trips give US churches the opportunity to see first hand the big picture view of the mission in Monterrey and Northern Mexico. While on the first leg of our flight from Charlotte, NC to Ciudad Mexico, I was reading E.W. Smith's book, "The Creed of the Presbyterians." On the cover of this old book, published around 1900, was the picture of a single thistle.
After reading for a time, I began contemplating how fitting a symbol the thistle is not only for Presbyterians and their tenacious grip on the gospel of grace, but also how it symbolizes the Triune God's deep, abiding, and steadfast love for His people. In dwelling on these ideas, I was inspired to write the following hymn entitled, "Our Condition, O Disaster." The meter is 87.87. and I have at least initially been using the tune GALILEE to accompany the lyrics during worship. My hope is that you will be encouraged and Christ exalted.
By Grace Alone,
Michael
Our Condition, O Disaster
(tune: GALILEE)
Our condition, O disaster
Poisoned fruit have tasted we.
Now the fruit of our rebellion
Is the grave no one can flee.
In the council of the Godhead,
Maker of the moon and stars.
Condescending to our station,
Offered His own Son for ours.
Born unto the world a thistle,
Reckoned as a lowly weed.
Taking justice, wrath and vengeance,
Sentenced to our poverty.
As the sickle cut so deeply,
Spilling out His life within.
In the process life eternal,
Accessible was made to man.
Now in glory high He reigneth
At the Father’s right hand side.
Opened up the way of heaven
Made us kings and priests to God.
Words: Michael D. Lee, 2008 Music: William H. Jude 1887