“Rejoice, Friends, and Be Delighted!”
TEXT: Mark Ryman (2005) from Matthew 5:1-12
TUNE: “Wycliff,” John Stainer (1887).

Jesus went up on the mountain—
Students gath’ring all around.
As they waited for His wisdom,
Jesus began to expound:

Blessed are the poor in spirit;
Theirs is the kingdom of Him
Who blesses the ones who mourn by
Comforting when life is grim.

Blessed are the gentle spirits;
They shall inherit the earth—
Not those warring, errant creatures,
Contesting their spirit’s dearth. 

Hungry? Thirsty? What will fill you?
Only God’s own righteousness!
He will satisfy the needy
Who have hoped in God to trust.

Blessed are the kind and gracious;
God’s own mercy they will laud.
Blessed are those who wage peace for
They are called the Sons of God.

Persecuted for righteousness?
Heaven is given to you!
Insults, lies, and accusations?
Trust in God to see you through.

Rejoice, Friends, and be delighted;
Your reward in heav’n is great!
This is how life treated prophets
Who with you will pass God’s gate.



The copy on this page, including the hymn and commentary, is copyrighted by Mark Ryman. © 2004.
I use CYBER HYMNAL for all of my tunes, which means you can use the tune yourself. Information on
the Revised Common Lectionary may be found at both textweek.com and Vanderbilt Divinity SChool.
You may freely use these hymn lyrics and/or commentary in whole or in part for study and/or worship 
as long as you use the following citation: "©2004 Mark Ryman. More hymns at edoxy.com."
If you would, please email me, letting me know how you have used the hymn(s). That would be a blessing.
If you wish to publish this or any of my hymns, you must of course gain my permission. © Mark Ryman
HYMN INDEX

You may freely use this hymn in whole or in part for study and/or worship 
as long as you use the following citation: "©2004 Mark Ryman. More hymns 
at edoxy.com." 

If you would, please email me, letting me know how you have 
used the hymn(s). That would be a blessing.

If you wish to publish this or any of my hymns, you must of course gain my permission. 

Mark Ryman (mark@edoxy.com)