Alma, Bendice al Señor

In the last few weeks, we have been trying to put together a 30 page "temporary" hymnal/chorus book (lyrics only) to use in our Bible studies. We are attempting to include hymns (new & old), choruses, and Psalms put to music.

While searching for more songs recently, I ran across the following video of a group of Chileans signing, Alma, Bendice al Señor (or Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation). It is a blend of the melody and lyrics of a great hymn of the faith with the distinct sound and rhythm of Chilean folk music. I remember back in Bible college, my roommates would get annoyed because I would play Chilean folk music non-stop in our room. In my opinion, the grand majority of Chilean folk music is beautiful and now it is been forever graphed into our life here on the mission field.

Listen and follow along with the Spanish lyrics below...

Alma bendice al Señor, Rey potente de gloria;

De sus mercedes esté viva en ti la memoria.

¡OH, despertad, arpa y salterio! Entonad

Himnos de honor y victoria.

Alma, bendice al Señor que a los cielos gobierna,

Y te conduce paciente con mano paterna;

Te perdonó, de todo mal te libró,

Porque su gracia es eterna.

Alma, bendice al Señor, de tu vida es la fuente

Que te creó, y en salud te sostiene clemente;

Tu defensor en todo trance y dolor;

Su diestra es omnipotente.

Alma, bendice al Señor y su amor infinito;

Con todo el pueblo de Dios su alabanza repito

Dios, mi salud, de todo bien, plenitud,

¡Seas por siempre bendito! Amén.