We recently had a baptism at our church. I gave the one being baptized several baptism hymns to consider for us to use during the worship service. He chose this hymn, but because it was so antiquated in language, I modernized and changed a lot of it. So it's originally a text by John Eustace Giles but I changed much of it. I was made aware of this hymn by David Ward's website ThousandTongues (now called Hymnicity), but I want back to the original wording and updated it myself without consulting his. So I think it can rightly be called a new hymn with an old heritage. Words: John Eustace Giles (1805–1875) and © Dustin R. Battles (1986– ) Suggested Music: Henry Smart, 1867 (REGENT SQUARE) How this sacred sign reminds me Savior, of your love to me. Buried with you, baptism binds me to you for eternity; Resurrection, resurrection guarantees new life for me! As I view the pool before me should I shun your selfless love? Though unworthy ...
The songs, hymns, and lyrics of Dustin Battles—follower of Christ, husband to Megan, father to Clark and Jonah, and pastor of Mercy Baptist Church, West Chester, OH (USA).