Clean Hands and a Pure Heart: The Path to Being with God Again

In the scriptures, we are reminded that having clean hands and a pure heart is essential for being in the presence of God. In Jacob's words, 'If we have a clean hand and a pure heart, we will be able to be with God again' (4). But what does it mean to have clean hands and a pure heart?

Our hands can become dirty through the things we do, but our hearts can become dirty through the things we think and feel. The prophet Psalmist reminds us that 'he who hath clean hands, and a pure heart, who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully' (Psalm 24:3-4). This is a tall order, as our natural inclinations can lead us away from purity.

In the Old Testament, King David's psalms often express his desire to be in God's presence. In Psalm 24, he asks who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord or stand in his holy place (v. 3). The answer is clear: it is the one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up their soul unto vanity nor sworn deceitfully.

This concept of having clean hands and a pure heart is not limited to biblical times. In fact, it is a universal principle that applies to all people, regardless of time or culture. It is a reminder that our actions and thoughts have consequences, and that we must strive for purity in all aspects of our lives.

In the context of worship, having clean hands and a pure heart can be seen as a prerequisite for approaching God. Just as the Lord's Prayer begins with the phrase 'Our Father who art in heaven,' so too should our prayers begin with a sense of humility and reverence.

The tradition of adding a Gloria to psalms is not part of the original text, but rather an innovation introduced by the early church. In this case, Ralph suggests omitting the Gloria as it is already included in the final verse. The organist can accompany the sections in unison, with some freedom to harmonise in the last four verses.

Sir Joseph Barnby, the composer of this rousing chant, was a renowned musician during the Victorian period. He introduced London society to some of Bach's choral music and was responsible for introducing the tradition of harmonising the unison sections at Eton College.

In conclusion, having clean hands and a pure heart is essential for being in God's presence. It requires humility, reverence, and a commitment to purity in all aspects of our lives. As we seek to approach God, may we strive for this standard and be found worthy to stand before Him with clean hands and a pure heart.

Clean hands and a pure heart ensign