God Moves in a Mysterious Way

”After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer went about with him.” (John 6.66).

What had caused disciples to abandon their hope in Jesus? Because Jesus proceeded in a way they neither understood nor approved, toward death on the cross.

“Now I am going to him who sent me.... But because I have said these things, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away.” (John 16.5)

God Moves in a Mysterious Way
His wonders to perform
He plants his footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.

You fearful saints, fresh courage take
The clouds you so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break
In blessings on your head.

Five beats per measure can be subdivided in many interesting ways, as can ten half beats. This piece explores the slightly mysterious sound that comes from delayed resolution in meter and harmony.

Simply accent the first beat of every measure, play evenly, play it dry, very little pedal. The second exposition of the theme may be omitted for brevity. Second time through each figure, harmony moves slightly toward resolution.