A Happy Day!

I heard the voices of many angels…the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands…saying with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power, wealth, wisdom, might, honor, glory, and blessing!”—Revelation 5:11–12

Wilhelm Wexels became a leader in the Norwegian church, but his views weren’t always popular. At times, he seemed to alienate both sides of theological issues. Some felt he too readily encouraged the spirit of revival. Others thought he too strongly supported the organized church with its formal disciplines. However many felt his ministry provided a turning point for the church and people of Norway.

After the death of his wife, his ministry increasingly stressed resurrection and the eternal life that awaits believers. All seemed to agree about the importance of the hymns he wrote, which exerted great influence. We see his insights in “O Happy Day,” a hymn he wrote in 1841.

This song celebrated the day “when we shall stand amid the heavenly throng and sing with hosts from every land the new celestial song.” What a wonderful day as believers gather from far and near to meet the Lord. “O what a mighty, rushing flood of love without surcease shall surge about the throne of God in joy and endless peace!”

Here he prayed that God would “inspire our hearts to watch and pray that we may join the heavenly choir upon that glorious day.”

The hymns of Wexels encouraged people to sing and bring the spirit of Heaven into their hearts and homes. What a happy day awaits all believers as we join the eternal throng and spend eternity with our Savior!

Reflection Question: If you wrote a hymn about Heaven, what would its title be and why?