William Bradbury lived during the mid-1800’s (1816-1868) and wrote the music for some well known hymns sung by the saints for generations. Songs like ” ‘Tis Midnight and On Olive’s Brow”, “He Leadeth Me” and “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less”. Other favorites like “Just As I Am” and “Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” are all the musical work of William Bradbury. Perhaps one of his most noted, recognizable tunes was written in 1862 to support the simple words penned by Anna B. Warner, “Jesus Loves Me”.
Some may remember the old hymn from W. W. Walford entitled, “Sweet Hour of Prayer”. This is another musical arrangement from the hand of William Bradbury. But there was yet another song (same, long meter) which took the same tune with the following words:
{sing these words to “Sweet Hour of Prayer”}
Before the throne of God above,
I have a strong and perfect plea:
A great High Priest whose name is love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands.
My name is written on His heart.
I know that while in heav’n He stands.
No tongue can bid me hence depart.
Though you might not be familiar with these words accompanying “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, you might be familiar with these words as they accompany a tune written by Vikki Cook in 1997. A songwriter and composer, Vikki Cook and her husband Steve have written numerous contemporary songs. One of her more popular hymns is known as “Holy Lord” or “Great Are You, Lord”.
Listen to this old hymn (penned in 1863) sung to an arrangement developed over 120 years later. The words are strong as you translate the Old English poetry, but the musical arrangement brings new life to a beautiful, old message. Before the throne of God I stand…