In this beautiful hymn we ask God to make us a channel.   What are we saying?  A channel can be defined as a passageway, a path or means for communication.  In this prayer we ask to be transformed, so that we can be a channel of hope not despair, of light not of darkness. 

Isaiah speaks a similar message in chapter 61, “The Sovereign Lord has filled me with his spirit . . . . He has sent me to comfort all who mourn, to give to those who mourn in Zion joy and gladness instead of grief, a song of praise instead of sorrow.”

How can this be?  Only because the Lord fills us with his spirit.  Only because the Lord transforms us.

The hymn “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace” is usually attributed to Saint Francis, although I have read that these words never appear in any of his writings.  The earliest record of the hymn was December 1912 in a small devotional French Catholic publication.   It was widely publicized during World War I and World War II to encourage peace throughout the world.  Perhaps this again is such a time.

The current well-known musical setting was composed by Sebastian Temple (1928-1997) in the year 1967.  The rendition which follows was recorded by the childrens’ choir of the Dragon School located in the university city of Oxford.

As you listen, open your heart to the unconditional love of God.  Let him make you a channel of his peace.

Judy