The story behind the hymn
Henry van Dyke wrote these words while a guest preacher in Massachusetts, handing the manuscript to his host with the remark that it should be sung to Beethoven's Hymn to Joy. The pairing has been inseparable ever since.
Van Dyke said he wrote it for people who know that love is the fundamental fact of the universe — a hymn of unclouded gladness in the God whose works ring with joy.
It gathers creation itself into the choir: stars, angels, fields, forests, and flowing fountains all reflecting the Giver of immortal gladness, and calls the singer to join the song.
The lyrics
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,God of glory, Lord of love;Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,Opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;Drive the dark of doubt away;Giver of immortal gladness,Fill us with the light of day!
All Thy works with joy surround Thee,Earth and heaven reflect Thy rays,Stars and angels sing around Thee,Centre of unbroken praise.
Public domain. Free to sing, copy, print, and share.
The Scripture behind it
Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
In thy presence is fulness of joy.
The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
The heavens declare the glory of God — creation's part in the hymn.