The Chimes of Time!

Ever wake up feeling miserable?
We neglected on Friday night to reset our clock radios for weekend wake-up. So my radio went off first: a news station that proclaimed the blessings and good will of the world! I was too groggy to turn it off and I knew in time it would quit anyway. When it finally shut itself down, at the precise same moment Bruce's radio started up, this time with classical music.

My mind started to swirl through all the things I had worked so hard to switch off a few hours earlier when I had come to bed for rest and sleep. Why is it that unresolved issues, set aside at night, are there to greet us like morning songbirds at the rise of the sun. I felt agitation rising within me and I was just at the point of thinking it was no use to try to get any more rest when a rich choir broke through the usual stream of secular, classical music with full harmony:

Be still, my soul; the Lord is on your side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to your God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; your best, your heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul; your God will undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and wind still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul; though dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears;
Then you will better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe your sorrows and your fears.
Be still, my soul; your Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.

Be still, my soul; the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul; when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

Two hours later, Mini jumped on the bed with happy grin and paws wet from the rain! Surprised by unconsciousness, I realized I had slept so deeply I had not even heard my honey get up and walk the dog!

The affirmation of family, trusted friend and faithful Pastor is so important. But it is the affirmation of the loving support of the Lord that gives me refreshing sleep and nourishes my soul!