The Golden Bells

I heard a voice from heaven, like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder, and the voice which I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps.—Revelation 14:2 NASB

Daniel de Marbelle lived a colorful life. After working on a whaling ship in his native France, he joined the American Navy. He served in two American wars—as a drummer during the Mexican War and a musician in the Civil War. After touring with an opera company as an actor and musician, he formed his own theatrical troupe and managed his own circus. He even was a circus clown.

His diverse life was marked with problems. He lost everything in a fire while touring Canada. Later the royalties from his songs were stolen. At the time of his death in 1903, he was mired in desperate poverty.

In 1887 de Marbelle wrote a song titled “When They Ring the Golden Bells,” born out of his difficulties. With the ear of a trained musician, he imagined the sounds of Heaven: “Don’t you hear the bells now ringing? Don’t you hear the angels singing? ’Tis the glory hallelujah jubilee.”

He pictured this land “we call the sweet forever.” He knew it was only “by faith’s decree” that we could “reach that shore.” Drawing on his experiences, he wrote of sailing “beyond the silver sea” where “we shall know no sin or sorrow, in that haven of tomorrow.”

You may face problems that seem overwhelming. But do not be discouraged or give up. Trust God and fill your life with praise. Stay faithful. Remember, God has prepared a glorious, eternal home for you.

Reflection Question: What insurmountable circumstances are you currently facing?