This Is My Father's World
This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears
A creation hymn celebrating the world as the Father's good creation. The three stanzas move from wonder at creation's beauty to the affirmation that God rules despite appearances, and finally to the eschatological declaration that Jesus has not lost. A hymn that holds creation theology and eschatological hope in tension.
History & Background
Written by Maltbie D. Babcock (1858-1901), a Presbyterian minister, and published posthumously in 1901. Babcock reportedly wrote the poem to accompany walks he took in the hills near Lockport, New York. The tune TERRA BEATA is a traditional English melody arranged by Franklin Sheppard.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 824
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 554
- Lutheran Service Book — 873
Bulletin Note
This Is My Father's World — Maltbie Babcock, 1901
Preaching Connection
Creation as God's world — the Father's sovereignty over all of life.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Creation's witness to divine paternity; affirmation of God's sovereignty despite apparent evil
Themes
Creation Stewardship Providence God's Sovereignty