But the LORD is my
defence; and my God is the rock of my refuge. – Ps 94:22
Over two centuries ago, (1763), it’s reported
that an Anglican preacher travelling along a gorge in the Mendip Hills of England
was suddenly caught in a rain storm. Fortunately, he found shelter in a gap in
the gorge. While waiting there, sheltered from the elements by that rock,
thoughts of a hymn about salvation came to him that would go on to immortalise both
him and that nondescript geologic formation.
The man was the Reverend Augustus Toplady; and the fissure he sheltered in was the gorge of Burrington Combe – a designated “Site of
Special Scientific Interest” by the U.K. government that’s more popularly known
by the title of the hymn it inspired: “Rock of Ages.”
With one of the most instantly-recognized tunes,
Rock of Ages is a classic hymn
that has inspired Christians and
non-Christians the world over for two centuries. It was regarded as one of the “Great
Four Anglican Hymns” of the 19th century and its lyrics described as “Among the most profound, inspiring,
encouraging, sacred, devotional and precious words ever penned.”
For some strange reason, the appeal of Rock of Ages goes beyond the walls of
our Christian cathedrals and has found its way into musical works for very
secular, and very young, audiences. It has inspired orchestral works, various rock
albums (including a rock musical film of that same title), and is featured prominently
in the bestselling action adventure video game Assassin’s Creed.
As a child, because of the popularity of the
phrase, I assumed “Rock of Ages” was a biblical term, similar to “Ancient of
Days”. And it’s a testament of the hymn’s scripturality that it can be used as
a tool to outline, in simple terms, the principle on which the Gospel message
stands.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
AMEN.
More Blessings await
you today; you’ll not miss them in Jesus’ Name.
GREG ELKAN
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