This week's Hymn Tyme
(Sunday, June 8, 2008)

"Stand Up and Bless the Lord"
James Montgomery (1771-1854)
 
Today's hymn was written by James Montgomery in 1824 especially for a Sunday school anniversary in Sheffield , England .  It was based on Nehemiah 9:5 which says, "Stand up and bless the Lord your God forever and ever".   
 
James was orphaned as a young boy. He entered seminary, but his grades were not good enough. Then he became an apprentice at a bakery. But James had always loved to write. Eventually he got a job as an assistant to the editor of a newspaper in Sheffield . The editor soon retired and James took over the paper. James became an outspoken advocate for many humanitarian causes, especially the abolition of slavery. His ideas for social reform were considered so radical that James was imprisoned two times. Other causes he championed included hymn singing in the Anglican Church services and foreign missions. James wrote more than 400 hymns.
 
Many excellent opportunities to witness for Jesus are lost each day simply because we are timid. Or perhaps we are with a group of co-workers or friends when the Lord's name is blasphemed or the gospel is mocked, and we remain silent. How tragic that our noble words of praise on Sunday often leave us during the week when they are needed most. May the challenge found in today's hymn help us to be bold for Jesus.     

Music Opportunities at First Presbyterian
All Are Welcome to Participate
Praise Band rehearses on Tuesday Evenings at 7:15 pm
Bell Choir rehearses on Thursday Evenings at 6:15 pm (off for the summer)
Adult Choir rehearses on Thursday Evenings at 7:30 pm

If you are interested in any of the Music Opportunities please contact:
George Warner, Director of Music & Worship
(home) 215-794-0160 
(cell) 215-869-6929
Email:  gwwarner@yahoo.com