Is Come Down, O Love Divine a Funeral Hymn?
“Come Down, O Love Divine” is not explicitly designated as a funeral hymn, but its themes of inviting the divine presence, seeking transformation, and expressing a longing for God’s love make it a poignant and contemplative choice for memorial services. The hymn’s heartfelt lyrics and musical beauty contribute to a reverent atmosphere.
Why is Come Down, O Love Divine a Suitable Funeral Hymn?
- Invitation of Divine Presence: The hymn serves as an invitation for the divine presence to come down and dwell among the mourners. In a funeral setting, where the need for comfort and solace is profound, the lyrics express a longing for God’s presence to bring healing and peace.
- Yearning for Transformation: “Come Down, O Love Divine” expresses a yearning for spiritual transformation and the refining work of the Holy Spirit. In the context of a funeral service, where individuals are grappling with loss and grief, the hymn’s message resonates as a prayer for divine comfort and renewal.
- Majestic Melody and Contemplative Tone: The hymn’s majestic melody and contemplative tone create an atmosphere of reverence and introspection. The musical composition complements the mournful yet hopeful mood of a funeral service, allowing attendees to engage with the hymn’s emotive expression of faith.
- Universal Appeal and Comfort: The hymn’s universal themes of divine love and transformation appeal to a broad audience. Its comforting message of seeking the divine presence resonates with individuals of various faith backgrounds, offering solace and hope in the face of loss.
Come Down, O Love Divine Lyrics
Come down, O Love divine,
Seek Thou this soul of mine,
And visit it with Thine own ardor glowing;
O Comforter, draw near,
Within my heart appear,
And kindle it, Thy holy flame bestowing.
O let it freely burn,
Till earthly passions turn
To dust and ashes in its heat consuming;
And let Thy glorious light
Shine ever on my sight,
And clothe me round, the while my path illuming.
Let holy charity
Mine outward vesture be,
And lowliness become mine inner clothing;
True lowliness of heart,
Which takes the humbler part,
And o’er its own shortcomings weeps with loathing.
And so the yearning strong,
With which the soul will long,
Shall far outpass the power of human telling;
For none can guess its grace,
Till he become the place
Wherein the Holy Spirit makes His dwelling.