Song Meaning
This hymn centers on a profound contemplation of divine love, urging listeners to reflect on its enduring qualities. The lyrics repeatedly prompt a focus on the "goodness" and "grace" of this paternal affection, establishing a tone of reverence and awe. It's a direct invitation to internalize the vastness of this love, setting the stage for its immense scale.
The core emotional thrust lies in the sheer immensity of this "father's love." The text contrasts the abstract concept of love with tangible, albeit vast, measures: "high as the heavens." This comparison immediately grounds the spiritual in the physical, emphasizing a love that is both immeasurable and deeply present.
The most striking aspect of the craft is the repetition of the phrase "grave is the measure." This phrase, repeated four times, hammers home the overwhelming, almost solemn weight of this divine love. It suggests a love so profound it commands a serious, almost weighty consideration, far beyond simple sentimentality.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics stems from their directness and the powerful, simple imagery used to convey an abstract concept. The repeated call to "think about" and the stark comparison to the heavens create a sense of overwhelming, undeniable truth about the nature of this father's love.