The good news of Christ
Father above, of tender mercies,
Cool the heart from hard emotions,
Rest the waves of turbulent thinking,
Quiet the storms where harbors perish.
Lord of winds and tossing waters,
Bid me walk above the surges,
Sight affixed on soothing knowledge:
Earth and sea must do your bidding.
Our lives are a mix of trial and trust,
You prove us, Lord, and prod us forward;
So teach us wisdom in tests of faith,
In our distress, be the God of truth.
Even in my trials and deep distress,
You find a seat for me at Jesus’ table,
Humbly I come in mercy’s finest dress,
To eat and drink, O Lord, you make me able.
Three times and more I’d ask you to remove
These thorns that weigh upon my weakened shoulder;
But no! Your strength and sustenance I must prove,
Become a gazer of grace, a Cross beholder.