Since it was going to be published on Christmas day, I selected this Friday’s song, It is Well With My Soul, to provide the opportunity for few moments of prayer and reflection. This has been such a difficult, pain-filled year for so many. Every life that was cut short by this awful disease is such a terrible tragedy. Two of my friends each lost a parent in December. Millions will be impacted by this for years to come. In the midst of such challenges, many have chosen to “battle” and blame others rather than focusing on the common challenges that face us all. It is not hard to see how many have lost hope.
Despite that, there is much to show us the path out of the darkness. Take a moment to reflect on the outstanding fortitude and courage being shown by thousands of doctors, nurses, and other health care workers across the globe every day as they fight to save the lives of those this disease has attacked. Think about the researchers, technicians, and other professionals who are working around the clock to create and distribute the vaccines that will kill this plague. If you sift through all the angst, shouting and noise on social media, you will find examples of families and friends trying to stay connected and neighbors reaching out to help neighbors.
So on this Christmas morning, let’s reflect together on how the human spirit can overcome anything as Horatio Spafford said so well in “It is Well with My Soul.”
When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to know
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Horatio Spafford 1873
I thought I would share a couple of renditions of the hymn as this Friday’s song. The first by TG4 will immerse you in Spafford’s lyrics. The second is a longer performance that tells the whole story featuring Hugh Bonneville. I hope you can take a few moments to enjoy.
Teresa, Ryan and I want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year!