Ever since I was a little girl, a Christian radio station in Houston has had a program on Saturday afternoons called By Request. Just like it sounds, it is an opportunity for listeners to call in and ask that their favorite song be played.I don't know if they're still playing it, but every Saturday for years and years (long into the 1980's) this song would be played, usually in the first 15 minutes or so! Written in 1954 by a former Hollywood actor and cowboy, Stuart Hamblen, this song describes a house in a state of disrepair after its owner's death and was inspired by a real-life house found by Hamblen and his friends while on a fishing trip. He intended this to symbolize the joy of the man's going to Heaven.
In addition to Stuart Hamblen's recording, over 30 other artists recorded this song, including Rosemary Clooney (whose rendition was a Billboard #1 hit), The Cathedrals, The Statler Brothers. It was also released in the UK and recorded in Swedish and Finnish as well. (Source: Wikipedia)
As my mom is in her third hospitalization in the past 5 weeks, and I watch her body grow frailer and frailer, this song touched my heart anew tonight. It's an old gospel song with a great truth.
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. I Cor. 15:19
Be sure to visit Amy's for more songs for your Saturday!
It is hard to watch our parents deteriorate. What a joy to know that when God calls them home they will have a new body untouched by human frailty. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLinda, you always manage to pick a song that brings a smile and sweet memory! I remember listening to this song when I was younger! I know what it is to watch as a mother grows frail as well! Praying for God's comfort and peace, and wonderful times together still!
ReplyDeleteI love the old songs like this. I have never heard this one before. I will keep your mom in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteBlessings Linda...this Ole' House certainly brings back memories and a big smile! I'm so sorry that you are passing through these difficult times
ReplyDeletewith your mother! It is so hard to watch as the body becomes more frail!
I pray that God brings comfort, peace
and His strength! Enjoy TSMSS and hold on to wonderful memories and try to have a good weekend!
Ms Linda, you found one I've never heard before!
ReplyDeleteSweet memories, sweet sentiment...I hope you're mother is fairing well & you as well.
Linda,
ReplyDeleteI've never heard it, but I enjoyed it. God bless you as you tend to your mother.
I hadn't heard this song - thank you for sharing it. You and your family are in my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted you to know I say a prayer for you (and you husband) every time you mention your mothers. May God bless your tender care of them as they age.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun song!
ReplyDeleteWhat an oldie! I love it!
ReplyDeleteI love this. It brings back a lot of memories of my grandma. I will keep your family in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI remember how popular that song was long ago, probably in 1954! Thanks for posting that. Praying for you and your dear mother ~
ReplyDeletePraying for the peace only our Saviour can give and precious time with your mother.
ReplyDeleteyou made me smile...i used to watch grand ole opry with my daddy and heard this song there...
ReplyDeletewe used to listen to the Gospel jubilee on Sunday mornings getting ready for church, too!
thank you for giving me back those memories...
come see me anytime!
Neat song. New to me, but neat none the less. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteCristine