A monthly feature on a hymn of the
faith.
His parents gave him an Old Testament name, “Ira,” meaning “watchful” in Hebrew. It was also the name carried by three of King David's warriors around 1000 B.C.. Though little more is known of them other than their tribes, no doubt these vigorous men could be labeled “blessings” to their earthly leader in that tumultuous time in Hebrew history. (1) People don't always match the character conveyed by their names, but the legacy of Ira B. Wilson (1880-1950) includes a mighty little song, “Make Me a Blessing.”
Wilson's biography isn't flashy. He was born in 1880 in Bedford, a little town in Iowa. His sister taught him to play violin and organ. Around 1902 he began studies at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. While there, he wrote a poem about being a blessing; his roommate George Shuler reportedly added the music. Their piece was rejected by a music publisher. Later, however, someone made 1,000 copies of it. One came to the attention of George Dibble, a singer and music director for the International Sunday School convention in Cleveland, Ohio. Soon after its convention introduction, it became widely sung.
Wilson worked in Christian music publishing throughout his life, with other original pieces reaching print. Some were published under a pseudonym. He also directed a volunteer choir. Little is known about his personal life other than that his first wife probably died and he remarried. He died in his 70th year and is buried at Forest Lawn in the Los Angeles area.
Though it seems odd, in later years Wilson didn't remember writing the lyrics. He denied authorship to his death, even though his college-years-hymn lyrics went on to be sung by millions of Christians throughout the world.
So, a take-away from the meaning of his name, “Ira,” meaning “watchful”? Perhaps a reminder that no matter our gifts (even a simple childhood acquaintance with violin and organ), being a “watchful” learner under the umbrella of gifted musicians and publishers can be part of God's plan for ministry. If the words and tune to “Make me a blessing” are easily recalled, remember that in God's economy there are no “little people.” His plan involves a whole range of abilities. David had his warriors, but Christian music also had its back-of-the-battle-line folks. Like Ira Wilson.
Enjoy singing this classic hymn again:
“Ira,” a Jairite and “chief ruler about David” (2 Samuel 20:26); “Ira a Tekoite, one of David's thirty “mighty warriors (2 Samuel 23:26, 1 Chronicles 11:28, 27:9); “Ira the Ithrite,” one of David's “valiant men” (2 Samuel 23:38, 1 Chronicles 11:40)
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