Amy Grant - Holy, Holy, Holy Lyrics
Lyrics
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, bless
Video
Holy, Holy, Holy
Meaning & Inspiration
Amy Grant's rendition of "Holy, Holy, Holy," released on her 2002 album *Legacy... Hymns & Faith*, offers a profound and deeply resonant interpretation of this timeless hymn. More than just a musical arrangement, Grant’s performance breathes new life into a confession of faith that has echoed through generations. The song is rooted in a rich theological understanding, drawing heavily from biblical narratives that speak to God's unapproachable holiness and His multifaceted nature. The phrase "Holy, holy, holy" itself is a direct echo of Isaiah 6:3, where the seraphim cry out this triple exclamation before the throne of God, signifying an unparalleled and absolute holiness. This powerful repetition underscores the immeasurable perfection and divine otherness of God, a concept central to the Old Testament witness, where His holiness is inseparable from His power and righteousness.
The lyrical content, while appearing simple, unfolds layers of theological truth. The invocation of God as "Lord God Almighty" aligns with the Hebrew name El Shaddai, signifying His all-sufficiency and omnipotence, a name revealed to Abraham as a promise of His protective and nurturing power (Genesis 17:1). Grant’s delivery imbues this title with a deep reverence, acknowledging the sovereign ruler of all creation. The line "Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee" speaks to a deliberate and joyful offering of worship, reflecting the practice of morning prayer and praise found throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 5:3, which states, "In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." This isn't merely a habitual act but a conscious devotion to lift one's voice in adoration at the dawn of each day.
The hymn's declaration that God is "merciful and mighty" directly confronts the often-misunderstood paradox of divine attributes. His might, as evidenced in creation and throughout salvation history, is tempered by His boundless mercy. This blend is beautifully illustrated in passages like Psalm 103:8, which proclaims, "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love." His might enables Him to accomplish His will, while His mercy ensures that His plans are ultimately for the good of His people.
Perhaps the most theologically rich assertion within the hymn is "God in three Persons." This is a direct, albeit concise, articulation of the doctrine of the Trinity. It acknowledges the Christian understanding of one God existing in three co-equal and co-eternal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This foundational truth, while not explicitly detailed in single verses, is woven into the fabric of the New Testament. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, for example, commands baptism "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," underscoring the unified yet distinct nature of the Godhead. The concept of God’s blessing flowing from this triune nature highlights the completeness of His grace and favor bestowed upon humanity. Amy Grant’s interpretation of "Holy, Holy, Holy" transcends a mere performance; it is an invitation to contemplate the awe-inspiring majesty and compassionate love of the Triune God, a message that continues to inspire profound reflection and unwavering faith.