NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD

As often is the case, the story behind the hymn text will give new meaning to the words;  such is the story of NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD, written by Cleland McAfee and first published in 1903.

Park University in Parkville, Missouri began in 1875 with only 17 students.  Colonel George Park was the colourful founder of Parkville, and had donated the land for the college.  John McAfee joined as the other founder and was the first president. 

John had five sons and one daughter, all of whom became active serving at the college.  His son, Cleland, after he graduated from his training, became the college preacher and choir director.  It was his custom when communion services came to write the words and music of a response consistent with the theme of his sermon, and then have his choir sing the composition.

One terrible week, just before communion Sunday, the two little daughters of his brother Howard died of diphtheria within twenty-four hours of each other.  The town, the college and the whole family were stricken with grief.  Cleland sat long and late thinking of what could be said in word and song on the coming communion Sunday.

So, he wrote, NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD.  The choir learned it at the regular Saturday night rehearsal, and afterward, the choir went to Howard and Lucy’s quarantined house and sang it as they stood under the beautiful sky.  Near to the heart of our sovereign God is the only place of real comfort and peace!

May you be drawn to His heart; I mean really, NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD.