Hymns possess a unique ability to resonate deeply within our souls, often intertwining with our personal narratives in profound ways. The hymn “What Wondrous Love Is This” is one such piece, carrying with it a weight of history and emotion that continues to move listeners centuries after its creation. Its simple yet powerful words speak to the very core of faith and love, prompting reflection on a love that transcends earthly understanding.
Laura de Jong’s experience at a Tenebrae service beautifully illustrates this hymn’s poignant impact. The annual service at Calvin College, designed for students and local churches, became an unforgettable moment for de Jong and all attendees. In a particular year, the service incorporated the opening lines of “What Wondrous Love Is This” as a recurring refrain after each Scripture reading. As the congregation contemplated the final hours of Christ, the refrain gained increasing emotional depth with each repetition.
During the “Shadow of the Crucifixion” segment, a somber moment within the service, tragedy struck. An older visitor, attending with his wife, collapsed due to a sudden heart attack. Amidst the solemn reflection on Christ’s sacrifice, the man’s passing transformed the service into an intensely real encounter with mortality. The congregation, initially gathered in contemplation of spiritual themes, found themselves united in prayer and grief as emergency responders attempted resuscitation, ultimately without success.
In the aftermath of this poignant event, the final verse of “What Wondrous Love Is This” resonated with renewed significance for de Jong: “And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be, and through eternity I’ll sing on.” This verse, previously a hopeful anticipation of eternal life, now echoed as a powerful affirmation of faith in the face of death. The hymn’s central question, “What wondrous love is this,” took on a new, urgent meaning, highlighting the love that offers solace and hope even in life’s most challenging moments.
A Hymn Rooted in Tradition
“What Wondrous Love Is This” stands as a testament to the rich tradition of American folk hymns. While the author of the text remains anonymous, its origins trace back to a traditional American folk song first published in 1811. The lyrics, largely unchanged since their popularization by Sacred Harp shape note singers in 1844, speak to timeless themes of sacrifice and redemption. Interestingly, some hymnals omit the stanza “When I was sinking down,” while others include an additional verse that emphasizes Christ’s sacrifice: “That Christ should lay aside his crown for my soul –What wondrous love is this, O my soul!” These variations highlight the evolving interpretations and personal connections individuals have forged with the hymn over time.
The Beauty of the Tune
The melody, aptly named WONDROUS LOVE, was first paired with these lyrics in the second edition of Southern Harmony. Music scholar Erik Routley eloquently described the tune as “incomparably beautiful,” a sentiment echoed by many who have encountered its haunting melody. While the tune has remained largely consistent, various stylistic interpretations have emerged, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
Exploring different renditions of “What Wondrous Love Is This” reveals the depth of its musical potential. Fernando Ortega’s piano and strings version masterfully utilizes tonal shifts to mirror the hymn’s emotional journey, moving from melancholy to hopeful resolution. Chanticleer’s a cappella interpretation demonstrates a bright, almost medieval style, showcasing the tune’s adaptability. Blue Highway’s bluegrass version grounds the hymn in American roots music, while Chelsea Moon and the Franz Brothers offer a simple yet powerful guitar-led rendition. These diverse interpretations demonstrate the hymn’s capacity to transcend genres and resonate with a wide range of musical sensibilities.
When and Why to Sing “What Wondrous Love”
“What Wondrous Love Is This” is particularly resonant during Lent and Good Friday services, making it a powerful addition to worship during these reflective periods. Many churches incorporate it as an opening hymn for Good Friday or Tenebrae services, setting a tone of solemn contemplation. The hymn’s first two lines can also serve as a poignant refrain throughout a Tenebrae service or during a reading of Psalm 22, a psalm often associated with Lent. This repeated refrain emphasizes the central theme of wondrous love amidst suffering and sacrifice, deepening the worship experience.
Through personal experiences like Laura de Jong’s and its enduring presence in diverse musical styles, “What Wondrous Love Is This” continues to offer a profound exploration of faith, love, and the human condition. It invites us to contemplate the depths of a love that is indeed wondrous, offering solace, hope, and a timeless message of redemption.
