I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Philippians 3:10-11
When Peace Like a River – Audrey Assad
When peace like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded by helpless estate
And hath shed his own blood for my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, oh my soul.
It is well, It is well, It is well with my soul.
I am not sure “When Peace like a River” would be considered a classic Easter or Lent hymn, but it certainly captures the truth that Christ has looked upon us with mercy and has saved us from our every last sin and our helpless estate. I do know that this hymn was one of my Dad’s favorite. I don’t remember that he ever said why, but that was my Dad. He didn’t talk about his feelings often. But now I remember him often wiping his eyes while singing at church. I always figured it was that his eyes watered a lot, but now I would like to think that it was his emotional response to work of Christ on the cross on his behalf. Now, I often have the same watery eyes when singing this song (and many others) in church.
When I hear or think of this song, I will always think of my Dad. But I also think “whatever my lot” and despite our “momentary troubles”, we can know peace and say, “It is well.” I have felt His presence in the valley. I know that the waves and wind still know his name and He still commands them. I also know that He has suffered through the greatest valley and bridged the greatest chasm between myself and God.
Therefore do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:16-7
A Long Intentional Walk 