Bulletin Articles
On Zion's Glorious Summit
Do you have a hymn that just gives you goosebumps, either by the beauty of the melody, or the amazing words that describe out God? My all-time favorite hymn must be “On Zions Glorious Summit”. Every time this song is sang in our midst, it sends chills down my spine and more often than not, ill shed a tear.
On Zion's Glorious Summit was written by John Kent in 1803. The music was composed by Robert Skene in 1869, and the hymn itself is based on the vision of the heavenly throne room in Revelation 4. Revelation 4 describes a vision of the heavenly throne room that the apostle John had. John sees a throne in heaven with One sitting on the throne. This One is described like a jasper and a sardius stone in appearance, with a rainbow around the throne like an emerald. Goosebumps!
The hymn begins with a vision of a great multitude of people gathered on Mount Zion, singing praises to God. These are the saints who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ. They have suffered persecution and martyrdom, but now they are victorious and rejoice in the presence of God. It’s building!
The second verse describes the martyrs who are now in heaven. They shout victory and hail the Lamb, who is Jesus Christ. They bow before God, the great I AM. The third verse speaks of the eternal joy that the saints will experience in heaven. They will be filled with everlasting love and will see new scenes of bliss forever. I don’t know about you but I can not wait to do this for eternity!
The hymn concludes with a Sanctus, which is a holy acclamation to God. It is sung in Latin and means "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest!" Ok, this is about the point where tears are coming down my face. This hymn is a powerful reminder of the hope and joy that awaits believers in heaven. It is a hymn that can encourage and comfort us during times of difficulty and loss. It is also a hymn that can inspire us to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God, knowing that one day we will be with him in heaven. All praise to our incredible Father in heaven!
