Songs of Thankfulness and Praise

Songs of Thankfulness and Praise is one of the most enduring Epiphany hymns in the English-speaking Church, written by Christopher Wordsworth, a bishop, scholar, and nephew of the poet William Wordsworth. The hymn is carefully structured to guide worshipers through the biblical events that reveal the glory and identity of Jesus Christ. Rather than focusing on a single moment, it unfolds as a sequence of thanksgivings for the ways Christ has made Himself known to the world.

The hymn begins with the visit of the Magi, drawing directly from Matthew’s account of wise men who followed the star to Bethlehem. This moment emphasizes that Christ is revealed not only to Israel but to the nations, fulfilling God’s promise that the Messiah would be a light to the Gentiles. Wordsworth highlights worship and offering as the proper response to Christ’s manifestation, reminding believers that revelation calls for reverent devotion.

The second and third stanzas move to other key epiphanies of Christ. The baptism of Jesus in the Jordan reveals Him as the beloved Son of the Father, affirmed by the voice from heaven and the descent of the Spirit. The miracle at Cana then displays His divine authority, as He transforms water into wine, manifesting His glory and compassion. These events collectively testify that Jesus is not merely a teacher or prophet, but the incarnate Son of God.

In later stanzas, the hymn shifts from historical reflection to personal prayer. Worshipers ask Christ to manifest Himself continually within the Church and in their own hearts. This transition reflects a deep theological truth that the same Lord who revealed Himself in Scripture continues to reveal His grace through Word, sacrament, and daily obedience. The hymn therefore connects doctrine with discipleship, encouraging believers to live in grateful response to Christ’s self-disclosure.

Songs of Thankfulness and Praise is especially suited for Epiphany season worship, yet its rich Christology makes it valuable throughout the church year. It teaches believers to recognize Christ’s glory in Scripture, to respond with praise, and to seek His ongoing presence in their lives. Through thoughtful poetry and strong biblical grounding, Wordsworth offers the Church a hymn that is both instructive and deeply devotional.