John Hallett Z

Continuing in John Hallett: From A to Z

Z = Zeal for Jesus and for His work

Titus 2:14 “Zealous for good works”

Zeal means “eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something.” It is synonymous with passion. Zeal implies “energetic and unflagging pursuit of an aim or devotion to a cause.” (Webster’s 7th New collegiate Dictionary).

Jesus was John’s “energetic and unflagging pursuit.” This is evidenced in is music composition and in his lecture notes.

John had a zeal for his God, his wife, Ruth, his work, baseball, flowers, piano, composition…all that he did. He did with his whole heart, soul, mind and strength. He not only taught this, but lived it.

He often listed the verse: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all to the glory of God”

John’s good works certainly follow him. He pursued Jesus; he pursued excellence; he pursued his dream of one day being able to transpose; he pursued his dream of using music to tell the Good News, the Gospel, to the world. And he fulfilled his pursuits!

John passed away on June 1, 2000. He lived to see the new century. But now he lives in glory with the One whom he faithfully served all of his life. On earth he lives on in the hearts and lives of his family and friends, in his music and in the example he set for all of us.

I encourage each one of us to pursue Jesus, first and foremost, but also pursue your dreams!

I end this note with some words on integrity from John’s his notes in his own handwriting: (undated)

Integrity:

1. Completeness (finished)
2. Perfectness, flawless
3. Character
4. Sincere

John and his beloved wife, Ruth.

John Hallett (1917-2000)

John Hallett Y

(Click on image to enlarge)

Continuing in John Hallett: From A to Z

Y = Yankees

Play baseball for the New York Yankees?

The dream of every young baseball player in the New York area and beyond! Imagine being invited to N.Y. to have a tryout with them! That was the offer given to John. Once before he had been given a tryout and had been given a scholarship to Columbia University. But this time, he had a train ticket to go to Yankee Stadium, "the House that Ruth Built" for another tryout. At that same time another "voice" was speaking to him. Go to Moody Bible Institute and prepare for ministry. John was a very capable pianist who, at an early age, was already in demand as an accompanist.

What would he do?

We know now that he chose Moody Bible Institute and a path that lead into music ministry. But he “loved” baseball!

John wrote this in an un-dated article:

“I had heard the Yankees were coming to the Triple Cities for an exhibition game with the “Triple Team”. It was the Yankees farm team. I had a try-out with the Yankees when I was l6 years old and made it. I received a scholarship to go to Columbia University to play baseball. I loved baseball so much. I played short-stop and 3d base.”

These notes are found in the blog entry “B” Baseball.

“…all the while he loved baseball. And he not only skilled his, emphasized his skill as a musician, he emphasized his skill as a baseball player. There was a team there in Binghamton that was a farm team of the New York Yankees. And that farm team asked Johnnie to play with him. And he played regularly from time to time with a Binghamton farm team of the New York Yankees. And then the Yankees heard about Johnnie and asked him to try out for, believe it or not, the New York Yankees baseball team. You’ll see why I mention that in just a few moments. But he loved baseball and he loved music, but ultimately it was music that won out, because of his love for music.” (recounted by his life-long friend Dr. Carl (Kelly) Bihl during John Hallett’s Memorial Service)

To his dying day, John kept a baseball glove and hat hanging next to the desk where he composed music. (See photo above) In his office he also had a variety of baseball memorabilia including baseballs autographed by members of New York Yankee teams over the years. One is signed by "Larry Berra," or "Yogi" to all of his fans! He loved baseball!

John Hallett X

Continuing in John Hallett: From A to Z

X = Xtra!

Today we get an Xtra edition of John Hallett’s life: facts and figures about an amazing man! Here are a variety of facts about John’s life and ministry.

John was born at 1:45 p.m. on August 22, 1917 in the home of his parents, John and Ethel Hallett, at 22 Tayntor Avenue, Binghamton, New York. One record says he was 9 pounds, another record says he was 10 pounds 2 ounces. No height is listed.

Spiritual Journey

John faithfully attended Sunday School at the Calvary Baptist Church in Binghamton. On September 16, 1923 he received a Beginner’s Department Promotion Certificate to the Primary Department.

Then….Primary to Junior Department: September 26, 1926.
Junior to Intermediate Department: September 29, 1929.
Intermediate to Senior Department: October 2, 1932.
(Yes, there are signed certificates for each of these)

The most important “certificate” says: MY DECISION FOR JESUS. “I believe JESUS died for me and I now accept Him as MY SAVIOUR. John C. Hallett, 152 LeRoy St., Sunday School attended: Calvary Baptist. Age: 8 Date: January 16, 1926.

Licensed to preach. “This is certify that at a meeting of the Calvary Baptist Church, at Binghamton, N.Y., held on the 11th day of August, 1942, our brother John C. Hallett whom we believe to have been called of God to the work of The Gospel Ministry, was Licensed to preach the Gospel as he may have opportunity, and to exercise his gifts in the work of the Ministry, except in administering the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.” Reverend Kenneth A. Muck, Pastor (signed) A.E. Hoyt, clerk (signed).

Certificate of Baptism. “Upon profession of his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, John Hallett was baptized by me into the fellowship of the Calvary Baptist Church at Binghamton, N.Y. on April 17, 1927. Herbert M. Pease, Pastor (signed)

Certificate of Membership. This is to verify that John Hallett was received into membership of the Calvary Baptist Church of Binghamton, N.Y. on the 1st day of May, 1927. Herbert M. Pease, Pastor (signed)

Educational Journey

John appeared to be a conscientious student. We have certificates for the three years—1930, 1931, 1932—during which time he was “Neither Tardy Nor Absent.” (as stated on the certificate).

Port Dickinson School: attended there in the 6th grade.

Junior High School. “This certifies that John Hallett having completed the Course of Study as prescribed by the State of New York for The Port Dickinson Junior High School is entitled to this Certificate. Given at Port Dickinson, New York this 27th day of June. A.D. 1933.” J. Edward Hurlburt, Superintendent (signed), Glenn A. Slater, Principal.

High School. “Department of Education. Binghamton Central High School. John Hallet has satisfactorily completed the academic course of study prescribed by the Board of Education for the High School and is awarded this Diploma. Granted on this twenty-second day of June. A.D. 1937. H.E. Weaver, Principal, Daniel J. Kelly, Superintendent of Schools (signed).

Piano Lessons

John Hallett began his musical career at the age of six by studying piano at the Binghamton conservatory. Later training included organ, harmony, conducting and composition.

One of John’s piano lesson note books contains 3 years of lesson assignments, meticulously written in color pencil and pencil by his teacher, Mrs. Allene K. Bixby of Binghamton, N.Y. September 27, 1929 first piano lesson in this series of notebooks.

He studied at Moody Bible Institute and New York University.

John wrote in an undated article: “The Lord did call me to use my musical talent in his service, the greatest work in all the world. I received most of my training as a young boy in Binghamton Conservatory of Music. I started piano lessons about the age of six. I had a wonderful teacher who also taught me theory, keyboard harmony and ear training.

I went to Binghamton Central High School, one of the few high schools offering a music course. Ray Hartley, known throughout the Triple Cities as a fine musician, taught the music course.. He took an interest in me and inspired me to write my own music. It was a privilege to take ear-training, harmony and composition during my high school years, a student of this great teacher.

In my early years, I was most interested in baseball. Music too, of course, and I was the substitute pianist and organist at Calvary Baptist Church in Binghamton.”

Music Director

John Hallett has served as Music Director at the Philadelphia Bible Institute and the Northeastern Bible Institute. He has also been Music Director of the Children’s Bible Hour of Grand Rapids, Michigan on the ABC network. In addition to churches mentioned in other articles.


My Song of Songs

One of John’s great songs that has been recorded by a number of well known musicians, including the late Jerome Hines of the New York Metropolitan Opera. Also, Philip Smith, Solo Principal Trumpet for the New York Philharmonic.
http://www.principaltrumpet.com/home.html?p=bio

My Song of Songs is referenced in the blog on J = Jesus.

On the website of the Salvation Army’s USA Eastern Territory Music Publications we find this note about Philip Smith:

“The Salvation Army has a long and distinguished history of producing excellent brass players. From Sydney to London, Chicago to New York, Salvationist musicians can be found in the brass sections of leading orchestras throughout the world. One of the finest players ever to first buzz a mouthpiece in The Salvation Army band program is Philip Smith. Introduced to the cornet by his father, the legendary cornet soloist and bandmaster, Derek Smith, Philip built his musical foundation through Salvation Army band and music camp program, then refined his skills at New York's prestigious Julliard School of Music.

The Philip Smith Signature Series features music performed by Philip with the New York Staff Band of The Salvation Army on the critically acclaimed recording My Song of Songs.

The text below is taken from the program notes of My Song of Songs, written by Philip Smith.

“I was tuned into "My Song of Songs" for several reasons. My dad mentioned it some time ago. Johnny Hallett dedicated it to "my esteemed friend, Erik Leidzen," a beloved writer of Salvation Army music and a professional composer. I love the words too. After all, what more can I say as a professional musician than that "He fills my life with joyous melody." And spiritually, my desire is that Christ will always be my song of songs.” http://www.music.use-salvationarmy.org/pubs/signature.html

If you want a great recording, look for the CD entitled, My Song of Songs by Philip Smith with the New York Staff Band of The Salvation Army.

Salvation Army

John had many associations with the Salvation Army. Two of the leading writers in the Salvation Army, Erik Leidzen and Emil Soderstrom, were men with whom he studied and collaborated in his writing and publishing. He presented workshops for Salvation Army conferences, directed Salvation Army band camps and knew many of the Salvation Army musicians, including Derek Smitih, himself a renowned cornetist, Philip Smith's father. In a number of John's books of choruses he used songs from The Salvation Army International Music Board.

Trans World Radio

John was a lifetime of the Board of Directors of Trans World Radio.

John Hallett W

Continuing in John Hallett: From A to Z

W = Webber, Leroy C.

“John Hallett came to Long Hill Chapel (New Jersey) in the Spring of 1955 and his music ministry here is well know and deeply appreciate by the Chapel fellowship. There has been a great growth in both the quality and breadth of the musical activities under his leadership.” Notes are from the program (attached) in which “Long Hill Chapel Bides Farewell To John Hallett” October 15, 1967.

Leroy C. Webber was the pastor or Long Hill Chapel and John was the Minister of Music. They not only worked together in ministry but also collaborated on a number of songs. Here are some of the songs for which he wrote the lyrics, including the last song John wrote.

(Click on images to enlarge)

The Music of Angels

The music of angels,
The star’s silver light,
The gold of the Magi,
God’s glory that night,
All welcomed the Christ Child,
As, humbled by birth,
The hightest of heaven
Lies cradled on earth.

So humble the shepherds,
Who bowed at His feet,
So regal the wise men,
In Jesus they meet,
A rude lowly stable,
A start at His birth,
The wonder of ages
When heaven meets earth.

Lyrics: Leroy C. Webber
Music: John C. Hallett

So Very Small

So very small, so very small,
This Baby Who is Lord of all,
The gift of love
Sent from above,
For me, for me.

So very small, so very small,
That voice is the cattle stall,
I humbly bow
And crown Him now,
My King, my King.

So very small, so very small,
This heart mine, it is my all,
This gift I bring
To Christ my King,
Today, today.

Lyrics: Leroy C. Webber
Music: John C. Hallett


Ruth: "The last song Johnnie composed."

Oh Sing That Name, the Name of Jesus
Lyrics by Leroy C. Webber

Verse One
Oh, sing that name, the name of Jesus,
That name above all names in earth and heaven.
Sometimes in whispered prayer, then loudly sound
I love that name, that mighty name.

Verse Two
It is that name, the name of Jesus.
It conquers doubts and fears and brings us peace.
Adore Him Heaven above, on Earth let praises now begin.
Oh, praise His name.

Verse Three
At His coming that great name was given
By an angel brought down to Earth.
Now the maiden called by God and chosen
Holds the baby in her loving care.

Verse Four
She sings that name in a tender lullaby,
Oh wondrous mystery how can it be?
That precious name I love, that glorious matchless name of Jesus
Oh sing that name.

Verse Five
Proclaim that name, the name of Jesus
Now see the gates of Him swing open wide.
The saints now gather on streets of gold,
In radiant light, Oh what a day!

Verse Six
But still that name, the name of Jesus,
Shall ever reign supreme thru endless time
And all the heavenly host and saints from all the ageless past
Shall praise His name.

Verse Seven
I will be there in that celebration
And I’ll join them in that song of praise
To the Savior who has given salvation
And has brought me to this place of joy.

Verse Eight
Then still that name, the name of Jesus
Will be my endless theme while ages roll
And so I’ll sing it now and raise my voice
And loud His praise.

Verse Nine
Jesus, oh how sweet the name
Jesus, every day the same
Jesus, let all saints proclaim
His worthy praise forever.


Will: Note what John attached to his last will and testament.

(Click on image to enlarge)

John Hallett V

Continuing in
John Hallett: From A to Z

V = Vessel of Honor

V in John Hallett’s life could represent a number of things.

Visionary. One friend said that John was “ahead of his time.” Musically, I believe he was. He was one of the early music editors of a major music publishing firm, Rodeheaver. He produced much music for the church including a vision for instrumental music. His brass series by Erik Leidzen was one of the early series for church orchestras. I remember as a young church musician in the 1970s observing that there was not a whole of instrumental music available for church orchestra. There were a few series but that was it. John had the vision for instrumental music, most likely because of his work and association with the Salvation Army. The Army was light years ahead of the local evangelical church in its instrumental program.

John was also a visionary with the John Hallett Chorale and Orchestra. John always strove for excellence in all that he did. The Chorale and Orchestra was another example of him taking church musicians to another musical level.

Versatile would be another v-word. Versatile can mean the ability to turn with ease from one thing to another. John was comfortable writing for choral, piano or instrument, as well as performing with at the piano as a soloist or accompanist, conducting a choir or a choral workshop. John loved people and could engage them with his kind spirit. He could move from editing music to pruning the rose bushes in his yard. Yet, with all of his versatility he maintained his focus: Jesus! This brings us to the main v-word:

Vessel of Honor. I choose this term from the New Testament writings of the Apostle Paul who wrote two letters to his son in the faith, Timothy. In the second letter he talks to Timothy about utensils in the house! Now how spiritual or informative can that be? Paul had written another letter to the Corinthian church in which he stated that before you can understand the spiritual, you must first understand the natural.

46 The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47 The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48 As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the man from heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49 And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we bear the likeness of the man from heaven. (1 Corinthians 15:46-49)


So Paul says to Timothy: "Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. (21) Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” (The New American Standard Bible)


Or in more contemporary language: “In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.” (New Living Translation)


John Hallett was truly a Vessel of Honor who was always “ready for the Master to use him for every good work.”

He described his understanding of music in “An Open Letter To Sanctuary Choir Members” (undated):


“Music, when submitted to the power of the Holy Spirit, can be a powerful instrument for God. How imperative it is, therefore, that every Christian who attempts to sing or play sacred music does it in complete yieldedness to the Holy Spirit and with the proper motive and attitude. Only one who has personally experienced Christ’s redemptive work can have a harmonious life that produces a true song upon the lips. Hence, such a person should desire to proclaim that message as effectively as possible to others so that they too may desire the source of his inner joy. A church choir, however, can have a worthy ministry only to the extent that each individual member realizes the importance of church music and desires to develop his own talent. As individuals become aware of their musical development and increase in spiritual effectiveness, they will realize greater personal satisfaction and joy in Christian service.


The main purpose of a choir is not mere entertainment or the display of individual talent. Rather, it is the blending of many talents and personalities into a composite force that has unusual possibilities for providing inspiration, warmth and unity to a service. Music can often present spiritual truths that can be accomplished in no other way.


You have been told that 75% of all church choirs are a failure! To be a success, you must take the music message off the paper, into your hearts, and then into the hearts of the congregation. It is your responsibility to give them a message each Sunday, and to be a blessing to them. You must give them your very best, not second best.”

John not only “talked the walk” but he “walked the talk.” He modeled this for his choirs, his students, associates and everyone with whom he came in contact.

One friend expresses how John modeled Christ to others in a handwritten letter to Ruth dated June 1, 2000:

“My dear Ruth:


John’s departure is not his loss but ours—yours and mine and the many others who knew him, admired him, and loved him for the mighty person that he was. As an artist he leaves behind more than most of us can in his music that so many of us find solace in.

I, for one, cannot recall being with John when he wasn’t soft and caring for those people and things about him. What a gift he gave me thru the privilege of knowing him. What an example he has set for others—like me and mine.”

May we all follow John’s example and live our lives always ready for the Master to use us for every good work.

John Hallett U

Continuing in

John Hallett: From A to Z

U= Up with Gospel Songs and Hymns

When John Hallett spoke in seminars and conferences, his subject matter included such things as conducting and arranging, to the leadership and music ministry. In whatever he did, John always wanted to exalt Jesus Christ. His life and ministry were not about performance for performance’ sake. This you will be evident in the following un-dated article: Up with Gospel Songs and Hymns. (click on image to enlarge)

Today, I have put in an article in his own typing with all of the added handwritten notes, underlining for emphasis, including one great note on p. 4 that says “repeat.” I guess he wanted to emphasize that point!

These notes are John’s originals, scotch-taped to pages he put in his notebook. By this time the scotch-tape has lost its adhesive and yellowed the pages, but you are able to read the thoughts of a man who lived in an era of change (most likely the 1970s). So, “change” is nothing peculiar to 2009.

To read the whole article, click on the image of the page you want to read and it will be enlarged.

Here is the major portion of the text.

(page 1) “In this ‘anti’ generation, it is popular to protest, march and raise the banner against numerous issues of the day. This action has pervaded our churches and its ministry in general. Lone time is spent in dialogue, condemning and criticizing the church and its many facets of ministry. The Church of God must be a divine institution to have remained to this present day. No business or organization could have withstood such a beating. Of course, Where Christ has been the foundation and Chief Cornerstone, the church as flourished and carried out its Divine task. The Church that has failed in this mission has noticeably lost the power and the blessing of God…."

At the end of page 1 John asks:

“Why have many churches omitted Gospel singing from their services?” Church musicians (page 2) admit they are not challenged musically and Gospel songs do not afford them opportunity to demonstrate their ability.” Then, John wrote in the sentence: “Should this be our purpose?” “When we perform Gospel music, we witness to our fellowman; we “sing the Good News”. These are often called ‘heart songs’ for they are (he later added handwritten numbers)

1. born in the heart of an author and composer redeemed by God’s grace
2. living in, and sung from the heart of the regenerated performer
3. to the heart of saved and unsaved alike.

“gospel songs differ in style and form. You tell of your conversion much differently than another Christian would witness of His experience. And thus, Gospel musicians have found new and varied mediums of presenting the Gospel story, but all with the sold purpose of witnessing to others of the Redeeming Christ. We have been called to witness. God’s Word says, “Ye are my witnesses” “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel, etc.” [Then in his own handwriting John adds] “God has called me to preach the gospel through gospel songs.”

“From the very beginning of the founding of Gospel songs, a battle has been waged to discredit this God-given ministry. The controversy was heated in Moody’s ministry concerning the use of this “unfit music of the lower working class.” So the slandering dialogue, debates, and lecturing still goes on today over the use of Gospel songs in our churches. True, not all songs are proper in text and music, but then is it right that we should do away with all Gospel songs, because of the weak few? Not all oratorios, (page 3) cantatas, and so called ‘serious music’ is the epitome of integrity. [handwritten] But we do not discredit all because of a few.

“It would be time well spent in learning the correct use of Gospel music rather than debating and criticizing its very existence.”

Later on in page 3 he moves to the future:

“Now as to its future. In this wonderful and exciting jet age where everybody and everything is on the “move” we are not at all surprised at the change, innovations and new forms of Gospel music presentations. That which is good will remain and will continue to be blessed by God. That which is lacking in sound theology and is musically weak, will meet with little success. In this century we have found numerous new mediums of presenting Christ and witnessing to our fellowman. Where the music and message of our songs are truthfully wedded together in a Christ exalting manner and “He” becomes (page 4) center and circumference of our Gospel presentation, we will see the blessing of God. There are many new forms of presenting our Lord in Song:”

“…Not everything performed in the name of the Church or Cross should be condoned. But we should have an open, sincere and understanding mind and hear, and a sympathetic ear tuned heavenward to His voice and leading. Gospel music degenerates into a purposeless, aimless act when it entertains rather than exalts.

Instead of opposing and criticizing, why not ask God where you might be used to witness to others in this rewarding Gospel Music ministry.

We need to pray much over all our music, for it is an offering to God and an admonition to the people, “Let the Word of God dwell in your richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Col. 3:16

Two concluding questions:

1. May I ask sincerely, if each time we present a Gospel song that we are filled with the Holy Spirit and are spiritually as well as musically prepared for our present to God and His People. We are to be “Filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:18 & 19.

2. Secondly, Is the purpose of my Gospel song presentation to reflect Christ and His power; and to do “all to the glory of God?” “Whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God” I Corinthians 10:31

John Hallett T= "There’s No Disappointment In Jesus"

Continuing in John Hallett: From A to Z

T= There’s No Disappointment In Jesus

Of the songs that have endured through church history, many seem to have a common bond: they are “born” out of some deep struggle or trial in the life of the composer. These songs “touch the heart.” Who has not been moved upon hearing the story of Horatio Spafford, a successful Chicago attorney and father of five? What a series of events: his only son suddenly died; the great Chicago fire wiped out the family’s extensive real estate investments; two years later he lost his four daughters when an ocean liner sank. Out of those tragedies came a standard of the church, “It Is Well With My Soul.” Louisa Stead was a young mother who was left with a small daughter after her husband drowned attempting to save the life of a young boy drowning in the ocean. Out of that tragedy came a song that has ministered to untold numbers of people, “’Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus.” Luther Bridges was able to write the words “Though sometimes He leads through waters deep, trials fall across the way; thought sometimes the path seems rough and steep, see His foot-prints all the way,” following the death of his wife and three sons in a fire while he was away conducting revival meetings in Kentucky.

Some of John Hallett’s most endearing and enduring songs came out of great difficulty. Perfumes and other fragrances come when petals are crushed. So, too, God allows men and women to go through the “crushing” process so the fragrance of Jesus can be evident in their lives. One of John's most well-known songs came out of the experience of “crushing blows” he suffered in his young life as a college student.

John had been given a train ticket to come to Yankee Stadium from his hometown in Binghamton to tryout with the New York Yankees. At the same time he felt God calling him into music ministry and that he should go to Moody Bible Institute to prepare for ministry. Ruth relates that the night before he was to go to Yankee Stadium, he was praying about what to do. Then next morning he woke up sick and was not able to go to the tryout. He felt that God had answered his prayer and, so, off to Moody he went.

Carl (Kelly) Bihl, his life-long friend and college classmate picks up the story:

“It was there at the Moody Bible Institute that Johnnie wrote his first great gospel hymn. You heard it at the beginning as part of the Prelude. The name of the song was “There’s No Disappointment in Jesus.” Many of you know that song. Some of you may even have sung it. But Johnnie wrote it because, well how shall I say it? People didn’t understand him. Not because he wasn’t understandable but because he dressed so beautifully. Did you know Johnnie? He was always fastidious. Yesterday, when we went to another gathering like this, I pressed my trousers because I knew I was going to be in the presence of what Johnnie Hallett was. I’m not fooling. He always looked like a million dollars, and he did that at Moody Bible Institute.

So when he would come in from a evangelistic campaign with Dr. Harry Vom Bruch, having gotten special permission, and traveling on a train where they allowed you to smoke, he came in 5 o’clock in the morning, and I was at the main desk at the Moody Bible Institute. He smelled like a tobacco factory. And people didn’t understand that. Here this fastidious student at the Moody Bible Institute (who) smelled like a cigarette. Well, they didn’t understand that. The faculty didn’t understand it. The rest of the students didn’t understand it; they didn’t understand it because he looked so good. The faculty didn’t understand it because he came in smelling like a Camel. Oh well, cigarettes. I want to tell you that he was misunderstood.

He came to the realization of there’s no disappointment in Jesus. And as a result of that experience he wrote that song, “There’s No Disappointment In Jesus”. I’ve sung it many times…he sang, he played it, and I enjoyed so much that song and that story. I’ve told him many times but it’s always been a blessing.” (recounted by his life-long friend Dr. Carl (Kelly) Bihl during John Hallett’s Memorial Service)

Ruth adds further details to the story of “There’s No Disappointment In Jesus”

John’s wife, Ruth, adds that “…on the day he wrote the song, he left Moody and walked downtown Chicago. He was so discouraged. As he walked along he told the Lord that he had given up an opportunity to try out for the New York Yankees and followed Him to Moody. He was feeling so badly – like everything was again him. He was very disappointed, almost at the end of himself even to the point of feeling like jumping into the lake (Michigan). He walked into Lyon and Healy, a large music store, and with his last dollar, he rented a studio for fifty cents an hour. In the studio he said to the Lord, “I’ve disappointed you, but You have never disappointed me.” At that point the Lord gave him “There’s No Disappointment in Jesus.” He walked out of that studio with a copy of words and music that would touch countless numbers of people over the succeeding years.”

One day I asked Ruth how he got back to Binghamton, New York, if he had spent his last dollar! She said that his father was an engineer for the rail road and, as a result, the whole family had railroad passes. So, John could get home anytime he wanted to!

In my opinion, this was the turning point in his life and ministry. God took the tragedy and turned it into a song that has encouraged people since 1940! He also helped a young man turn his focus in the right direction: Jesus. As we have talked about in the past, Jesus was the theme of his song for his entire life.

This is what John wrote in the Children’s Bible Hour News (undated)

The Story Behind The Song (see the insert from the C.B.H. News below)

“Discouraged, downhearted…’blue,’ and not know which say to turn, I was ready to give up. Many disappointments had fallen and were almost more than I could bear. I could to nothing but fall on my knees and tell the Lord all about it. The Lord spoke to me and the words ‘No Disappointments in Jesus’ seemed to stand boldly before me. And so that night came this beautiful song with this melody and harmony.

“A few months later an evangelist friend in the East asked for the privilege of publishing it. Since then, it has appeared in many song publications and has had a wide ministry over the radio throughout America. There are disappointments on every hand but ‘There is No Disappointment in Jesus.’”


(click on image to enlarge)

There’s No Disappointment In Jesus

Verse 1

There's no disappointment in Jesus,

He's more than my tongue can tell;

His love is so sure

And so steadfast,

His friendship divine will not fail.

Chorus

There's no disappointment in Jesus,

He's all that He promised to be;

His love and His care

Comfort me everywhere;

He is no disappointment to me.

Verse 2

There's no disappointment in Jesus,

Tho' sorrows may press me sore.

He comforts with tender compassion,

His love cheers my heart evermore.

Verse 3

There's no disappointment in Jesus,

He satisfies me alway;

So strong and so willing to help me,

In Him I find comfort each day,

John C. Hallett © 1940 Renewal 1968 Word Music, LLC