Michael A. Perry's text draws from the Emmaus story in Luke 24:13-35. As we sing it, we experience the journey to Emmaus and discover Christ in the Word (st. 1), in the breaking of bread (st. 2), and in our service to him (st. 3). The Easter "alleluias" framing this hymn were not part of the original text, which Perry (b. Beckenham, Kent, England, 1942; d. England, 1996) wrote in 1981 in Southampton, England.

Initially studying mathematics and physics at Dulwich College, Perry was headed for a career in the sciences. However, after one year of study in physics at the University of London, he transferred to Oak Hill College to study theology. He also studied at Ridley Hall, Cambridge, and received a M.Phil. from the University of Southhampton in 1973. Ordained a priest in the Church of England in 1966, Perry served the parish of St. Helen's in Liverpool as a youth worker and evangelist. From 1972 to 1981 he was the vicar of Bitterne in Southhampton and from 1981 to 1989, rector of Eversley in Hampshire and chaplain at the Police Staff College. He then became vicar of Tonbridge in Kent, where he remained until his death from a brain tumor in 1996. Perry published widely in the areas of Bible study and worship. He edited Jubilate publications such as Hymns far Today's Church (1982), Carols far Today (1986), Come Rejoice! (1989), and Psalms for Today (1990). Composer of the musical drama Coming Home (1987), he also wrote more than two hundred hymns and Bible versifications.

Liturgical Use:
Lord's Supper, especially at Easter or at any time in conjunction with the Emmaus reading.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook

Norman L. Warren (PHH 15) wrote BURNING HEART for Perry's text in 1981 and added the "alleluia" frame. Both text and tune were first published in the British Hymns for Today's Church (19 2). The tune title derives from Luke 24:32: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?"

BURNING HEART is a unison tune with three melodic sequences; it is ably supported by a harmony featuring effective accented nonharmonic tones. Sing the initial "alleluias" gently, and gradually increase intensity and crescendo throughout the stanzas so that the final "alleluia" may be jubilant. The format of this hymn is similar to that of "O Sons and Daughters" (393).

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook