"It is Well with My Soul" by Greyson Clifton

Greetings Covenant Community!

As we continue to adapt and respond to the many changes that have rapidly occurred in our lives, I just wanted to share the story behind a familiar hymn, It is Well with My Soul. 

From Wikipedia: " This hymn was written after traumatic events in Spafford's life. The first two were the death of his four-year-old son and the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which ruined him financially (he had been a successful lawyer and had invested significantly in property in the area of Chicago that was extensively damaged by the great fire).His business interests were further hit by the economic downturn of 1873, at which time he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on the SS Ville du Havre. In a late change of plan, he sent the family ahead while he was delayed on business concerning zoning problems following the Great Chicago Fire. While crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the ship sank rapidly after a collision with a sea vessel, the Loch Earn, and all four of Spafford's daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone …". Shortly afterwards, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died. Bliss called his tune Ville du Havre, from the name of the stricken vessel."

I invite you to ponder the words of this classic hymn and consider them anew:

When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to knowa It is well, it is well, with my soul. Refrain It is well, (it is well), With my soul, (with my soul) It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Prayer:

"Eternal God, we ask for calm and peace as many of us are adrift in a  sea of uncertainty. We ask that you grant us peace and grace, serenity and compassion, and above all an understanding that it is well. Amen."