Book Review: Then Sings My Soul: 150 of the World's Greatest Hymn Stories by Robert J. Morgan
Robert J. Morgan's Then Sings My Soul: 150 of the World's Greatest Hymn Stories is a delightful and spiritually enriching journey through the rich heritage of Christian hymnody. Far more than a mere collection of lyrics, this book delves into the fascinating, often poignant, and sometimes dramatic narratives behind the hymns that have shaped generations of believers. Morgan, a pastor and author, brings his passion for both music and history to bear, offering readers a glimpse into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the hymn writers themselves.
The premise of Then Sings My Soul is simple yet profound: to reveal the stories that birthed the beloved hymns we sing. Morgan selects 150 well-known hymns, ranging from ancient carols to modern classics, and provides a concise yet compelling account of their origins. Each entry typically includes a brief biography of the hymn writer, the circumstances surrounding the hymn's composition, and often, a verse or two of the hymn itself. The stories are diverse, encompassing moments of profound grief, ecstatic joy, unwavering faith in persecution, and quiet contemplation. Readers will discover how hymns like "It Is Well With My Soul" emerged from unimaginable tragedy, or how "Amazing Grace" was penned by a former slave trader transformed by divine mercy.
Morgan's writing style is engaging, reverent, and accessible.
He has a knack for distilling complex historical contexts into digestible narratives, making the stories come alive without bogging down the reader with excessive detail. His tone is consistently appreciative of the spiritual depth and enduring power of these hymns. He writes with a clear love for the subject matter, and this enthusiasm is infectious. The entries are relatively short, making the book ideal for devotional reading, allowing readers to absorb a few stories at a time and reflect on their meaning.
One of the greatest strengths of Then Sings My Soul is its ability to deepen one's appreciation for the hymns themselves. Knowing the context and the personal struggles or spiritual insights that inspired these timeless songs adds an entirely new dimension to singing or listening to them. It transforms familiar melodies and lyrics into powerful testimonies of faith, resilience, and God's faithfulness. The book also serves as a wonderful introduction to the lives of many significant figures in Christian history, highlighting their contributions beyond just their musical legacy.
While the book is comprehensive in its selection of 150 hymns, some readers might wish for more in-depth theological analysis of the hymn texts themselves, or perhaps a more critical examination of their historical impact. However, Morgan's primary aim is clearly devotional and inspirational, rather than academic, and in that regard, he succeeds admirably. The focus remains squarely on the human stories and divine inspiration behind the music.
In conclusion, Then Sings My Soul is a treasure trove for anyone who loves Christian hymns, enjoys historical anecdotes, or seeks spiritual encouragement. Robert J. Morgan has crafted a beautiful tribute to the enduring power of sacred music and the remarkable individuals who penned these timeless expressions of faith. It's a book that will undoubtedly enrich your worship experience and remind you of the profound ways in which God has worked through His people throughout history.
