HYMN NOTES: How Deep the Father's Love for Us

This hymn is no stranger to our congregation. It was first written in 1995 and has been sung solo numerous times. Rightly so, since it has become a world-wide favorite contemporary hymn, published in at least 14 hymnbooks—practically every English hymnal of the last 20 years. It was written by British composer Stuart Townend who is best known for his hymn IN CHRIST ALONE.

Townend realizes that hymns should rouse emotions, that the worship of God involves the whole person, including emotions. Yet, he criticizes the kind of worship that focuses on emotional experience, as if having an emotional experience is the goal of worship. He says, “When all of our songs are about how we feel…, we’re missing the point….  I want to encourage the expression of joy, passion and adoration, but I want those things to be the by-product of focusing on God—I don’t want them to become the subject matter” (cited here: http://www.faughnfamily.com/hymn-fathers-love-us/).

With this hymn, Townend achieves his intention. The lyrics clearly convey the gospel message of Christ’s sacrificial death, and how “his wounds have paid my ransom.” Simultaneously, they pierce our hearts over the depth of the Father’s love for us.

HYMN NOTES is a weekly feature of our church's Sunday bulletin. It is meant to promote good hymnody and congregational singing.