This is My Father's World

When I graduated from seminary in 2005, one of the most memorable presentations during the ceremony was that of the song, This is my Father’s World, as sung by a musical professor on the campus. Without the assistance of any instruments, the vocalist belted that simple, yet familiar tune that expresses a childlike trust in the sure providence of God. As I was completing one part of my degree and beginning a transition to serve as a church planter in Pennsylvania, the words of that song were a powerful reminder of God’s care for us, even amidst the unknown which lied ahead. The song was actually written more than a century ago by a minister who lived in Lockport, NY, a city situated adjacent to Niagara Falls. Following his death and the publication of the song, his wife explained that he would often take walks in the Niagara area, enjoying the panoramic vistas of upstate New York. As he would leave the house for these walks, he would comment, “I am going to see the Father’s world.” From those times of solitude with the Lord amidst His glorious creation, Maltbie Davenport Babcock would write the following words:

This is my Father’s world: I rest me in the thought Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas—His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father’s world: Oh, let me ne’er forget That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.

We certainly need the firm reassurance that these words express in our current circumstances. The world is seemingly spinning out of control as fear from disease, political upheaval, violent uprisings, and moral chaos have become so common in our culture. I have spoken with many in the last several days who have expressed their great concern over the tumult in our society. Many have experienced loss and suffering in a much more personal manner as they pass through times of great difficulty. The phrase “how long” is used dozens of times throughout the Bible. In a time of great personal and societal injustice, the prophet Habakkuk would exclaim, “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen” (Habakkuk 1:2). Many can appreciate Habakkuk’s plea of anguish.

However, the promises of Scripture affirm that God does hear us when we cry to Him through Christ. In fact, even while evil may abound all around us, the Bible attests that while God is not its author, He is using even evil to accomplish His glorious ends. We look forward in hope to that great Day when God will forever vanquish all evil at the return of Jesus Christ. Until then, though we may be prone to dismay, we can rest assured that “this is our Father’s world.” Everything that occurs does so under His watchful eye. He protects us in countless ways and He directs our paths, even in the most precarious matters. He comforts us, no matter our sufferings.

One passage of Scripture that describes Jesus Christ’s ultimate authority in a rather picturesque manner is found in Zechariah 10:4. There, despite the political unrest of the nations, and the general apathy of God’s people, the prophet Zechariah prophesies that God reigns. His rule is particularly revealed through the sending of Messiah. The authority of the Messiah, who is Jesus Christ, is described in four unforgettable ways.

• “the cornerstone”—This is a familiar description of Christ throughout the Bible. Jesus literally is noted as the foundation for His people, the keystone that joins the walls. The writer of Hebrews reiterates this truth when he explains Jesus as the One who “upholds the universe by the word of His power” (Hebrews 1:3). Every single particle of matter in the universe—and every single matter in our lives—is being held together by the breath of His word.

• “the tent peg”—A rather less used terminology for Christ, it literally refers to Him as the One on whom burdens may be placed with confidence. Everything is “hanging” on Jesus. Imagine the hushed silence of the orchestra awaiting the direction of the conductor. Not a note is played without his careful command. Even so, every creature above, upon, and below the earth awaits the administration of Jesus Christ (Revelation 5:1-5).

• “the battle bow”—This term for Christ simply means that He is the victorious warrior who never loses a battle. It is with this understanding that the Apostle Paul could say with confidence (even as he suffered persecution), “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31).

• “from him every ruler—all of them together”—Specifically, the kings of Israel would hail from the tribe of Judah. It is from this same lineage that the Messiah would eventually come. Yet, Jesus is more than an earthly ruler. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords! All authority is given to Him (Matthew 28:18)!

In the midst of our chaotic world—and in the midst of your own personal chaos—remember that “this is our Father’s world.” As Maltbie Davenport Babcock would complete his hymn so appropriately,

This is my Father’s world, The battle is not done: Jesus who died shall be satisfied, And earth and Heav’n be one.

Jason