Anthem Spotlight: I Cannot Tell-5.1.25

Londonderry Air is a lovely Irish folk tune that was originally written as an instrumental selection and published in 1855. In 1910, the lyrics to Danny Boy were written by a British lawyer, Frederick Weatherly, who loved to write. His sister-in-law shared the tune with him and suggested that he write lyrics, which are now well-known throughout the world. It wasn’t until years later, around 1920, that a Baptist preacher from Belfast, William Young Fullerton, wrote new lyrics and called the hymn I Cannot Tell.

Though the hymn is not found in many hymnals, the beauty of its music and the power of its lyrics help convey a special message to anyone who sings it. Each verse actually has two sections. The first part tells the story of the historical Jesus—His birth, ministry, suffering, and death, as well as the worldwide acceptance of Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world.

Each second part begins with the words, "But this I know," affirming His birth in Bethlehem, acknowledging how He heals those who are sad and downtrodden, and announcing that He is, and always will be, known as the Savior of mankind.

As you listen, don’t be lulled by the quiet, narrative style of each verse’s opening. With the powerful words "But this I know," you will be swept away as the life of Jesus is musically set before you.