“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the Lord!” -Psalm 27: 14
Like many of you, I watched the state funeral for President Jimmy Carter. It was held in the National Cathedral. There were many memorable moments throughout this service. The tributes that were spoken were a wonderful testimony to President Carter. The music blessed me. Much of the music was performed by the Armed Forces Chorus. This music was beautiful and fitting praise to our God.
Perhaps the most moving song that day was the hymn “Be Still, My Soul.” Beyond the walls of the National Cathedral, the day was filled with chaos. As I worked on a writing project, the snow fell outside. We received word that our children’s schools were releasing early. At the same time, the national news was filled with grim stories, including the fires that had just begun in California. There was turmoil across the country while we memorialized a former president. In this setting, the Armed Forces Chorus started to sing this hymn; it created a moment of peace.
“Be Still, My Soul” was written almost 300 years ago. Even then, the circumstances of the world caused the author of the original lyrics to search for peace and strength. There are many scriptures that remind us that God is our source of strength, and in God’s presence, we find peace. The psalmist writes, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.” (Psalm 46:1-3)
We often find ourselves in moments of chaos. It is easy to worry and feel a sense of anxiety. In these moments, let us be still and be reminded that God is with us. We have peace in the midst of turmoil and strength in moments of exhaustion. Thanks be to God!
Be still, my soul: the Lord is on your side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief and pain;
leave to your God to order and provide;
in every change God faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: your best, your heavenly friend
through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
(Be Still, My Soul – Kathrina von Schiegel)
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
