This Is My Father’s World

Author – Maltbie D. Babcock, 1858–1901
Composer – Franklin L. Sheppard, 1852–1930
Tune Name – “Terra Beata”
Meter – SM (66.86 Doubled)
Scripture Reference – Psalm 33:5
“He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” – Psalm 33:5

“This Is My Father’s World” is a hymn drawn from a sixteen-stanza poem written by Reverend Maltbie Davenport Babcock, a gifted Presbyterian minister whose life and ministry left a deep impression on all who knew him. Each stanza of the original poem begins with the line, “This is my Father’s world,” revealing a profound spiritual response to the beauty and order of God’s creation. Though Babcock passed away before his poem was published, the text was printed posthumously in 1901, and in time became a cherished hymn across Christian denominations.

Maltbie Babcock was born on August 3, 1858, in Syracuse, New York, into a respected and socially prominent family. He distinguished himself early in life both academically and athletically. As a young man, Babcock was admired for his commanding presence—tall, broad-shouldered, and robust in health. He was a natural leader and athlete, excelling in swimming and baseball. Though admired for his strength and vigor, he was equally respected for his unwavering moral compass and deep compassion. He had a magnetic personality that especially attracted the young people in his congregation, who saw in him a role model of Christian manhood.

Babcock’s character blended strength and gentleness. He was known to be cheerful and full of good humor, yet he had no tolerance for cruelty or moral compromise. On one occasion, seeing an older boy bullying a younger child and using offensive language, Babcock promptly took hold of the offender and physically removed him from the scene, an act typical of his protective, no-nonsense attitude. His personal convictions and inner resolve were expressed powerfully in his poetry. One of his most quoted poems, Be Strong, challenges readers to embrace life’s hardships with courage and endurance, viewing every struggle as a gift from God.

In addition to his ministry and writing, Babcock was a skilled musician who played the organ, piano, and violin. His love for nature was deep and reverent. While pastoring in Lockport, New York, he would often begin his days with long walks to a hilltop that offered a sweeping view of Lake Ontario and the surrounding countryside. As he left home, he would often say, “I’m going out to see my Father’s world.” This simple phrase became the heartbeat of his famous hymn—a heartfelt expression of faith in God’s sovereignty and beauty revealed through creation.

Yet, This Is My Father’s World is far more than a nature hymn. It is a spiritual affirmation that God is present and active in His world—that the seeming chaos of life is held together by divine wisdom and love. The hymn declares not only the grandeur of nature but also the providence of God in ruling over it. The final stanza reminds us that despite the presence of evil, “God is the ruler yet,” anchoring the believer in unwavering trust.

The tune that carries Babcock’s text, Terra Beata, was arranged by Franklin L. Sheppard, a close friend of the author. Sheppard was an accomplished musician and churchman who included the hymn in his 1915 Sunday school hymnal Alleluia. He adapted the melody from a traditional English folk tune. The Latin name Terra Beata means “blessed earth,” fittingly capturing the spirit of the hymn. Sheppard’s gentle and flowing musical setting complements Babcock’s words beautifully, helping to etch them into the hearts of countless worshipers.

Through this hymn, Maltbie Babcock offers a lens to view the world, not merely as a natural wonder but as a reflection of God’s character and care. Every flower, bird, and sunrise proclaims His glory. And even in the face of injustice and sorrow, the believer can rest in the truth that “Jesus who died shall be satisfied, and earth and heaven be one.”

Maltbie D. Babcock died unexpectedly at the age of 42 while traveling in the Middle East. Yet his legacy endures, especially through this beloved hymn that continues to inspire gratitude, awe, and trust in the Creator.