Thursday, August 1, 2013

Dearest God,

In choir practice as we sang together It is Well with My Soul, I realized I was doing more than singing a simple song.  I was drinking in the wonders of faith.

I don't remember when I sang this song the very first time.  I just know it was an invitation to visit a place of joy, hope, love, and peace.  When I sing it, I fill up with memories of healings, help, guidance, and mercy.  I feel your spirit around and in me.  I have the sense of being deeply loved.

The composer wrote the song at the site where all his children perished at sea.  No one could write such an extraordinary song with that kind of grief and sadness without a wide vision of faith.  Every time I sing this song, one of my all-time favorites, I feel both his loss and his spectacular trust in you. He writes as he believes.  In so doing he fills his listeners with great hope and deep faith.

Some day my family will sing this song at my own memorial service because I want them to know what hope, joy, and peace we have in you.

Wondrous God,
filler of grace,
compassion, and mercy,
thank you
for gifts
that give us
a vision
of you.
Thank you
for faith
that opens doors
to deep things
of your spirit.
Thank you
for faith
that unlocks
the door.

Love, Andrea