Is Day by Day a Funeral Hymn?
While not originally penned for funeral services, “Day by Day” has emerged as a poignant hymn that resonates with mourners. Its sincere and hopeful lyrics, coupled with a melody that evokes reflection, make it a fitting choice for memorial gatherings.
Why is Day by Day a Suitable Funeral Hymn?
- Uplifting and Reassuring Message: “Day by Day” carries a message of trust and reliance on a higher power during life’s challenges. The hymn’s words speak of seeking guidance and strength from day to day, providing a sense of reassurance for those grappling with loss. Its positive outlook encourages mourners to find solace in the present moment and trust in the journey ahead.
- Simple and Melodic Composition: The hymn’s uncomplicated and melodic structure makes it accessible to congregations of various musical preferences. Its simplicity allows for easy singability, ensuring that attendees can participate in the communal expression of grief and hope during the funeral service.
- Emphasizing Faith in the Face of Grief: The lyrics of “Day by Day” emphasize the importance of faith and the acknowledgment that life’s trials are navigated with divine support. This focus on spiritual endurance aligns well with the themes often explored in funeral services, providing a source of strength and inspiration for mourners.
- Personal Reflection and Connection: The hymn’s intimate and introspective nature allows mourners to reflect on their personal relationships with the departed. The phrases “Day by day, and with each passing moment, strength I find to meet my trials here” provide an opportunity for attendees to connect with their own emotions and memories, fostering a sense of shared experience.
- Versatility in Musical Interpretation: “Day by Day” has been arranged in various musical styles, including traditional hymn settings and contemporary adaptations. This adaptability enables funeral organizers to choose an arrangement that suits the overall tone of the service and resonates with the preferences of the grieving family.
Day by Day Lyrics
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.
He, whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best,
Lovingly its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.
Every day, the Lord Himself is near me
With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear and cheer me,
He whose name is Counselor and Power.
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid;
“As your days, your strength shall be in measure,”
This the pledge to me He made.
Help me then in every tribulation
So to trust Your promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith’s sweet consolation
Offered me within Your holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
Ever to take, as from a father’s hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till with Christ the Lord I stand.