Tell me the old, old story

People tend to remember negative images more than they do positive ones, according to a study conducted by the University of Chicago (I certainly do).   Those that are most negative tend to stick in our minds way too long (just image what they do in childrens minds?) - reports of tragedies, diseases economic downturns etc....  However for Katherine Hankey she was far more interested in "good news".  In 1866 she became very ill, as she lay in bed her thoughts turned to the Lord and she thought of all the people she had shared the wonderful story of Jesus. That's when she decided to write a poem which later became the hymn "Tell me the old, old story.  

We never tire of hearing the story that because of His great love God sent His one and only Son to this earth (John 3:16).  He lived a perfect life, took our sins upon Himself when He was crucified, and 3 days later rose again (Luke 23:44 - 24:3).  When we receive Him as our Saviour, we are given eternal life and become His children (John 1:12).

-Anne Cetas from Our Daily Bread Devotional

It has been such a long time since I have read these words - so I was delighted to see and read them again - and wanted to share them with you - I think they are so relevant to us all.

Tell me the old, old story of unseen things above,


Of Jesus and His glory, of Jesus and His love.

Tell me the story simply, as to a little child,


For I am weak and weary, and helpless and defiled.

Refrain

Tell me the old, old story, tell me the old, old story,


Tell me the old, old story, of Jesus and His love.

Tell me the story slowly, that I may take it in,

That wonderful redemption, God’s remedy for sin.

Tell me the story often, for I forget so soon;


The early dew of morning has passed away at noon.

Refrain

Tell me the story softly, with earnest tones and grave;


Remember I’m the sinner whom Jesus came to save.

Tell me the story always, if you would really be,


In any time of trouble, a comforter to me.

Refrain

Tell me the same old story when you have cause to fear


That this world’s empty glory is costing me too dear.


Yes, and when that world’s glory is dawning on my soul,


Tell me the old, old story: “Christ Jesus makes thee whole.”

Refrain

By Arabella Katherine Hankey (1834 – 1911)

The Twelve Apostles, Victoria

(there are no longer 12 limestone stacks standing along the coast, they have gradually eroded, see the small pile at the front near beach, that is the remains of one apostle )