Jude’s Doxology Part 1

The word ‘doxology’ is taken from the Ancient Greek for ‘glory’ and ‘saying’ or ‘words’. So it’s like a short hymn of praises to God, often added to the end of psalms and hymns, and in this case a letter.

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. Jude 1:24-25

Jude’s doxology has always had a special place in my heart. We used to sing a version of it when I was young. Let’s take the next few days to sit with it so you can discover its value if you’ve never encountered it before.

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling…

The song I remember used falling instead of stumbling. I love this reminder that the God of the universe holds me in His hand or by the hand and can stop me from falling. The material that Jude covered in his letter is scary stuff. There are clever people out there skilled in persuasion who are trying to lead us away from Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life. It’s not easy following Jesus’ way – it’s the narrow path. But we are never alone. God can keep us from stumbling. I find that deeply reassuring.

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.  Matthew 10:29-31

Each one of us is held.

Yesterday marked the anniversary of my mum’s death 27 years ago. She always carried with her this poem written in her own handwriting. I don’t know where she got it from, but I share it with you today because it expressed so well what the opening words of this doxology encapsulate.

We are never alone;

There is one who shares our every burden –

One who cares.

We are never alone;

God has ordained

That in every need

We are sustained.

For he who knows

Of the sparrow’s fate

Is watching always

Over us all.