Tuesday, November
29, 2022
Heb 6:18-19
18
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we
might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the
hope set before us:
19
Which
hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and
which entereth into that within the veil;
Ps 107:29-30
29
He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30
Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their
desired haven.
Henry Gilmour came to the United States from Ireland
as a teenager and perhaps this is why his hymn seems best sung by a male
tenor. He practiced dentistry for several years and then spent the last
25 years of his life as a gospel musician. He was a gifted soloist and was
greatly respected as a choir director. “The Haven of Rest” first appeared in
Sunlight Songs, published in 1890.
I love this old hymn. It is what some would call my spirit
song. For some reason this old song
often invades my sleep, and my soul sings it throughout the
night as I wake from time to time. I used to walk through our fellowship hall
on the way to my office and this old hymn would burst forth from me. It echoed
from the empty place and became a chorus of assurance and hope. It is a great
comfort to know that “He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are
still.” (Psalm 107:29)
My
soul in sad exile was out on life's sea,
So
burdened with sin, and distressed,
Till
I heard a sweet voice saying, "Make me your choice!"
And
I entered the Haven of Rest.
Chorus:
I've
anchored my soul in the Haven of Rest,
I'll
sail the wide seas no more.
The
tempest may sweep o'er the wild, stormy deep,
In
Jesus I'm safe ever more.
Is
your frail craft being beaten by the waves of circumstance?
Whether you have foolishly set sail in winter against the advice of the seasoned
sailor or whether some summer squall has caught you by surprise, know that the Master
of the Sea is ready to take the wheel and speak to the wind! Set sail for His fair
haven and anchor your weary soul.
Dear
Lord, even salted and seasoned sailors may be overtaken by a sudden storm. Let
us flee to your haven and anchor our souls. AMEN
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