Be Jubilant, My Feet

Our July 5 Sunday was a time of celebration and gratitude. What a joyful time! A highlight for me was the congregational singing of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” 

The song “Battle Hymn of the Republic” is made richer by knowing its context. It was written in November of 1861 by abolitionist Julia Ward Howe and became a popular anthem for the North during the Civil War. It is a call to courage for the sake of Christ and justice for the oppressed. One of the original lyrics reads “as He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free.” It’s often modified to “as He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free.” Both are inspiring texts, but the former highlights the reality of those originally singing this song. They were willing to die for the freedom of enslaved black Americans.

Although written for a specific time and context, the song can still inspire us today. The third verse was especially poignant for me as we rehearsed this song:

He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat;

He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judgment seat;

O be swift, my soul, to answer Him; be jubilant, my feet!

Our God is marching on. 

These lyrics highlight that every battle belongs to God. He has sounded the call and is the ultimate judge. Yet, we can inspire ourselves and one another by saying “be swift” to answer, and instead of reluctant and fearful feet, joyful feet! The cause of Christ and justice is worth courage and joy, because we know that God’s justice is ultimately for our good and God’s work continues on in mercy and perfection.  

Dr. Jill Schroeder-Dorn, Director of Worship Arts