May 12
GOLDEN HARPS ARE SOUNDING
Words and Music by Frances R. Havergal, 1836–1879
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. After He said this, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. (Acts 1:8, 9)
Christ’s resurrection is one of the most authenticated facts in history. During the 40-day interlude between Easter and the ascension, He was seen by such trusted witnesses as Peter, the entire group of disciples and apostles, a crowd of 500 of His followers, and finally by the apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 15:5–8). And many of these same individuals who saw His resurrected body also witnessed His ascent into heaven. The resurrection and the ascension, cornerstones of the Christian faith, have been historically documented. Christ’s ascension assures us that Jesus is alive and ruling His kingdom while seated at the right hand of His Father. The ascension is also the guarantee that our Lord will personally return for His followers and escort us to the heavenly home He has prepared.
“Golden Harps Are Sounding” is one of our fine but unfamiliar hymns from the neglected “Ascension and Reign” section of many church hymnals. These are hymns that should be used not only during this Ascension Day season but also throughout the year to teach believers the importance of this event.
The author, Frances Havergal, wrote this Ascension Day hymn especially for a group of children while visiting their school. It is said to have been written within the space of ten minutes. “Golden Harps Are Sounding” is one of the few hymns for which Miss Havergal also composed her own tune, “Hermas.”
Golden harps are sounding, angel voices ring, pearly gates are opened, opened for the King: Christ, the King of glory, Jesus, King of love, is gone up in triumph to His throne above.
He who came to save us, He who bled and died, now is crowned with glory at His Father’s side: Never more to suffer, never more to die, Jesus, King of glory, is gone up on high.
Praying for His children in that blessed place, calling them to glory, sending them His grace: His bright home preparing, faithful ones, for you; Jesus ever liveth, ever loveth too.
Refrain: All His work is ended, joyfully we sing; Jesus hath ascended—Glory to our King!
For Today: Psalm 24:7, 10; Luke 24:50; Acts 1:7–10; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 9:24
Share the thrilling account of Christ’s ascension with your family members. Sing this musical truth together—
Milo 