Swing low sweet chariot

'Swing Low Sweet Chariot' was first sung by a small group of supporters in 1988 during the 100th Rugby Union match against Ireland at Twickenham. In the first half England was losing 3 nil, but in the second half England scored a thumping 6 tries and a 35-3 win. Three of the tries were scored by the black winger Christ Oti and the African slave song, 'Swing Low' with its inspirational tune was sung as a tribute to him at his debut.

Usually fans only sing the first line of the song but here's the full version.

Swing low sweet chariot, Coming for to carry me home, [sung twice]
I looked over Jordan and what did I see, Coming for to carry me home?
A band of angels coming after me, Coming for to carry me home.

These words come from the Bible story about the prophet Elijah who struck the water of the river Jordan with his mantle so that it divided and he and his young successor Elisha walked across on dry ground. Suddenly Elisha saw a chariot of fire appear and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha picked up Elijah's mantle that fell from him and continued in his master's work. Hence the proverb still used today, "The mantle of Elijah has fallen upon Elisha." [ 2 Kings 2:8-14 ]

Crossing the Jordan is still a symbol of death and for slaves working in the cotton plantations their only hope of a better life was for God's chariot to take them up to heaven. As we enter 2004 we know not what the future holds but if we know the One who holds the future He will one day carry us to our eternal home. A happy new year to you all and remember this secret of Joy - Jesus first Others second and Yourself last!.

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