“Morning Has Broken” - Eleanor Farjeon

1881–1965

The song “Morning Has Broken” hit the pop charts in 1972, but it was written some forty years earlier as a children’s hymn for the first day of spring. British poet Eleanor Farjeon penned this beautiful ode to God’s creation and chose a traditional Gaelic tune as its melody.

Of course there was no way Eleanor could have anticipated the immense popularity her hymn would eventually have. It was surprising when, in the heyday of rock music, people could turn on their radios and hear words that clearly expressed a sense of wonder and praise at the beauty of what God had made.

Praise for the singing, praise for the morning,

Praise for them springing fresh from the Word.

Eleanor saw the dawn of each new day as a reminder that creation is one of God’s masterpieces. Her song eventually inspired millions to think about creation, the beauty surrounding them, and where it all came from.

Do you ever look at creation and become inspired by the beauty surrounding you? What catches your attention? The sunrise? Sunset? New buds on the trees in the spring? The power of the ocean? The silent stillness of a night after a snowfall? The scent of basil growing in the garden in the summer?

When you’re inspired by creation, do you respond with creativity? Perhaps you could write a poem like Eleanor’s. Perhaps not. But you could also use that garden basil to create a fresh, home-cooked meal for family or friends. Or you could preserve a beautiful sight by snapping a photo with your phone. Maybe you could improvise a praise song or compose a “creation rap.” The important thing is to respond. Let God know that you don’t take his masterpiece for granted.

O LORD, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.

Psalm 104:24