Today Bree and I both have dental appointments and will take turns holding the Monk (who will be 2 this Thursday). Hoping to have time for lunch with the girls at Forky's in town.

Since we recently chose to change churches, I am finding that I have more time to contemplate my spiritual life. Praying for those who I left behind, and looking at new friends with new hopes. In my study time this morning, I came across this old song:


Do not wait until some deed of greatness you may do. Do not wait to shed your light afar. To the many duties ever near you now be true; brighten the corner where you are.
Just above are clouded skies that you may help to clear; let not narrow self your way debar. Tho’ into one heart alone may fall your song of cheer, brighten the corner where you are.

Here for all your talent you may surely find a need, here reflect the Bright and Morning Star. Ever from your humble hand the bread of life may feed; brighten the corner where you are.
Chorus: Brighten the corner where you are! Brighten the corner where you are! Someone far from harbor you may guide across the bar; brighten the corner where you are!

Mrs. Ogdon felt much anger and resentment against God for allowing this tragedy (her father's auto accident) to happen. Gradually, however, she determined that she would be happy and remain “true to the many duties near” her (caring for her badly injured father). She would do her best to “brighten the corner” where God had placed her. Ina completed this poem in 1913. Later it was set to its lilting music by the well-known musician, Charles Gabriel, and it became the popular theme song of the Billy Sunday-Homer Rodeheaver campaigns. Interestingly, Mrs. Ogdon no doubt ministered effectively to more people with these challenging words, born out of despair, than she would have done with her speaking tours on the Chautauqua Circuit.
Osbeck, K. W. (1990). Amazing grace : 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions. Includes indexes. (Page 78). Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications.