A Song

I sang this as a solo in a huge Presbyterian church once, when I was 29. It so happened that my life was particularly nightmarish at that time, and this song helped me through those days.

It's by Bach, and the melody is slow and hauntingly beautiful.

I am singing it for Bill this morning as we get ready to go. He says that he feels so comforted by this song, and that I'm the best wife, and so on. I'm sure "best wife" isn't quite true, but he is so sweet. He is also scared this time, more than usual.

Me, too.

So the song comes through for both of us.

That's why I wanted to share Bach's song with you. Here are the words:

"In Faith I Calmly Rest” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. S. Bach

In faith I calmly rest, and put my trust in God,

Although oft sore opprest with anxious care and dread;

his friendship my reward, in him my joy i find;

he keepeth watch and ward o’er me and o’er my house .

Therefore I thank my God, and joy to do his will;

I know whate’er befall, his love doth lead me still .

So like a little child who clasps her father’s hand,

Serene i take my way, in faith untroubled stand.

Great peace they surely have who in the lord confide,

Who cast on him all care, and in his love abide."