Thy Strong Word

Here’s the text of Martin Franzman’s magnificent theological accolade:

Thy Strong Word

1. Thy strong word did cleave the darkness;
   at thy speaking it was done;
   for created light we thank thee,
   while thine ordered seasons run:
   Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
   Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!


2. Lo, on those who dwelt in darkness,
   dark as night and deep as death,
   broke the light of thy salvation,
   breathed thine own live-giving breath:
   Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
   Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!


3. Thy strong word bespeaks us righteous;
   bright with thine own holiness,
   glorious now, we press toward glory,
   and our lives our hopes confess:
   Alleluia, alleluia! Praise to thee who light dost send!
   Alleluia, alleluia! Alleluia without end!


4. God the Father, Light-Creator,
   to thee laud and honor be;
   to thee, Light of Light begotten,
   praise be sung eternally;
   Holy Spirit, Light-Revealer, glory, glory be to thee;
   mortals, angels, now and ever praise the Holy Trinity.

Words: Martin H. Franzman (1907-1976)
Music: Ton-y-Botel, Thomas John Williams (1869-1944)