MY SAVIOUR’S LOVE/I STAND AMAZED/ HOW MARVELOUS, HOW WONDERFUL

There are three titles often used for this hymn text written by Charles H. Gabriel.  You may find it with the title "MY SAVIOUR'S LOVE," OR "I STAND AMAZED IN THE PRESENCE" OR "HOW MARVELOUS, HOW WONDERFUL." 

Charles Gabriel grew up on a farm in Wilton, Iowa.  His father led singing schools in their home, and young Charles developed a strong interest in music.  It is said that he taught himself to play the family’s pump organ.  Without formal music training, and at the age of 16 or 17, Charles began to travel to lead his own shape note singing schools. 

Apparently, a pastor, recognizing Gabriel’s musical talent ask him if he knew of a song that would fit his sermon for the next Sunday.  The pastor shared his message topic and by the end of the week, Charles had written a song for Sunday…words and music!

Charles was married, but due to his extensive travel demands, this marriage failed.  He moved to California to get a new start and soon re-married.  Within a few years, he moved to Chicago, and devoted his life full time to writing and publishing hymns. 

Sometimes, he wrote both hymn text and music, and other times just the music.  He edited 35 gospel song books and Sunday School song books.  He was involved in the publishing of many choir anthems, adult choir and children’s cantatas.  He wrote between 7 and 8,000 songs, and used 2 or 3 pseudonyms when many of his works were published. 

Other well-known songs by Charles Gabriel are, "Send the Light," "O That Will be Glory," "Will the Circle be Unbroken," "Since Jesus Came into My Heart" and "His Eye is on the Sparrow."

Charles Gabriel’s hymn is a wonderful reminder of the love of God and the grace of Jesus Christ.  It is amazing to think about God unconditionally reaching out to you and I to give us life eternal.  “How Marvelous…How Wonderful!”