Songs of Grace ‎#12

12. Down by the Jordan

Down by the Jordan, a prophet named John was baptizing,
Preaching a message the people found bold and surprising:
"God will forgive! Show that you'll change how you live!
Surely God's new day is rising!"

There by the river, the crowd came with great expectation:
"Are you God's Chosen One, sent here to rescue our nation?"
"No!" John replied. "He who is mightier than I
Judges and offers salvation."

Jesus, you went to be baptized with all of the others,
Taking your place among sinners, God's lost sons and daughters.
Then with great love, God's Spirit came as a dove!
Your work began in those waters.

Here in the Church, we are baptized and filled with God's Spirit.
Freed and forgiven, we're welcomed with joy! Can you hear it?
This is God's sign! This is how God says, "You're mine!"
Let's take the good news and share it!

Text Information

• First Line: Down by the Jordan, a prophet named John was baptizing
• Title: Down by the Jordan
• Author: Carolyn Winfrey Gillette (2000)
• Meter: 14.14.4.7.8
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2000
• Scripture:
  John 1:6-8
  ;
  John 1:14-34
  ;
  Luke 3:1-22
  ;
  Mark 1:1-11
  ;
  Matthew 3:1-17
• Topic: Baptism; Church Year; Jesus Christ: Ministry
• Copyright: Copyright © 2000 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved

Tune Information

• Name: LOBE DEN HERREN
• Descant: Craig Sellar Lang (1953)
• Meter: 14.14.4.7.8
• Key: F Major
• Source: Stralsund Erneuerten Gesangbuch; The Chorale Book for England