Text: George Croly
Tune: MORECAMBE
This hymn is one of the finest examples of the individualistic piety, fire and passion of devotion that marked the pre-Victorian Evangelicalism of England. It is a prayer for the indwelling Spirit of God to take complete control of body and soul. With but one brief reference to the Cross, this hymn's theology is only that of the Spirit (pneumatology There is no science, no sociology, no biblical criticism. The poet entered his prayer closet and shut the door. "My heart an altar and thy love the flame" may be one of the most beautiful metaphors of any hymn.
George Croly (1780-1860) preached at St. Stephen's, in a poor section of London, for more than thirty years. An engaging and forceful preacher, he re-opened it's pulpit after it had been closed for over a hundred years. This is the only surviving hymn text from his writings during this period.
The tune, MORECAMBE, composed by Frederick C. Atkinson , was originally set to "Abide With Me" for use in the composer's church where he was organist.
The hymn entered Methodist hymnody in 1901 with only 4 stanzas. In 1905 the hymn was restored to its original length and remained so to the present.
To allow the hymn to express the fullest measure of piety it invokes, sing at least one stanza in full harmony and a cappella.
Lection at HymnSite.com
Contributed by Rev. Linda K. Morgan-Clark
Alternate Response for #112: #211 v2, first two phrases. See also Index listings: "Prayer for Illumination" p.951; "Stewardship" p. 952
Consider substituting #112 for the Psalter. See also Index listings "Providence" p. 950; also Hymns 102-125 (God's Nature), 126-143 (Providence)
See index listing "Jesus Christ, Presence" p.946
See also Index listings: "Presence (Holy Spirit) p.949; also Hymns 395-424 (Personal Holiness)