Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts! - Bernard of Clairvaux (translated by Ray Palmer)

This hymn is usually attributed to Bernard of Clairvaux from a poem he wrote in the 12th century during a period of history often called the Dark Ages. The church was plagued with spiritual and moral decay. The poem was translated from Latin in 1858 by Dr. Ray Palmer. Since Palmer did a free paraphrase rather than a strict translation, many consider that the hymn as it is known today was written by both Bernard of Clairvaux and Palmer. "Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts!" was first published in the Sabbath Hymn Book in 1858.

Bernard of Clairvaux was a French nobleman by birth. His father was a knight, and his mother was a gracious and devout woman. With all the advantages of his upbringing, he possessed a high standard of character, excellent manners, and eloquence of speech. Influenced by the piety of his mother, who taught him the Christian faith, he grew up loving the Lord. Bernard could have continued to enjoy a life of luxury, but after his mother’s death, he gave it all up to become a monk. He wrote from personal experience when he said in the first stanza of the hymn that one can be “unfilled” by “the best bliss that earth imparts.”

Hymns such as this are sometimes criticized because they sound too much like a medieval monk, secluded in a monastery, unaware of the needs in the world, but Bernard broke free from that way of thinking. He understood that for Jesus’ purposes to be accomplished, Christians had to do it. Bernard diligently studied the Bible and knew the scriptures in his mind that were also real in his heart. His strong personality and leadership made him one of the most influential religious leaders of that time. He held evangelistic campaigns, and his eloquent, strong preaching challenged popes, kings, and political leaders to live godly lives. He also admonished professors to teach the truth. He emphasized a personal relationship with the Lord, Bible study, prayer, holiness, and ministering to the spiritual and physical needs of others.

When he was selected to lead the Second Crusade in 1146, he required those joining the Crusade to give evidence of a personal conversion experience. Bernard of Clairvaux was a bright light in the spiritual decay of the Dark Ages.

Dr. Ray Palmer was the pastor of the First Congregational Church of Albany in New York when he translated Bernard’s poem in 1858. He was frequently ill and lonely and found comfort in writing poetry. Palmer was the first American writer to translate Latin hymns into English. He also wrote several hymns and is best remembered for his hymn, “My Faith Looks Up to Thee.”

“Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts!” expresses the immeasurable peace that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the “fount of life’ and the “light of men.” …we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement (Romans 5:11). Christ’s truth will never change, and those who seek Him will indeed find Him as their “all in all.” Christ is identified as the “living bread” and the “fountainhead” from which the believer’s soul is filled. Trusting in Christ results in rest for the believer during difficult times. The hymn then concludes with a desire for Christ’s continuing presence, assured of His promise.… lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matthew 28:20). This hymn should be a reflection of the joy and love in every believer’s heart.

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