"Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:31 ESV

I find it interesting that this hymn was written by two friends, James Rowe and Howard Smith working together. While Rowe was composing the lyrics, and coming up with a few notes, Smith would play them on the piano, connecting the words to the wonderfully flowing melody that we are given today. It is said that Howard Smith suffered from such severe arthritis that his hands were twisted and it was painful for him to play, and yet, the joy that exuded from the music reflected the joy of his faith rather than the difficulty of his daily life. What a lesson these friends leave for us today, of working together in the cause of Christ. When one wearily stumbles, the other comes and lifts him up, so that together we can say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith!” 2 Timothy 4:7

Each of us comes to a place in our lives, more than once when it is hard to go on. Just as Peter who boldly stepped out of the boat and at first began walking on the water towards Jesus, we have times when we feel strong. Our faith seems to be hitting on all cylinders; we are confident and going full steam ahead. But, just as often, all of us come to moments when, like Peter, we start to sink under the waves of hardships, difficulties or opposition. Then, we cry out in desperation, and just as He did for Peter, Jesus reaches His hand, lifts us up, and leads us back to the boat. Oh yes, Jesus will correct us, and challenge us to greater faith, but He will never abandon us. No matter what you are going through Jesus will never abandon you. He has no problem with wind and waves. Stormy sea walking is His specialty! He has come out on these dangerous waters just for you and me. But we have to choose to take HIs hand and let Him lift us up. This past Sunday, when we sang, Love Lifted Me there was such joy in our people’s response, that I had to share it with you. There are very few who know so well the saving, helping, and strengthening power of Jesus than those in long-term care facilities, and I hope you will be blessed and maybe even sing along! If you are in trouble, facing a crisis or are just plain discouraged and don’t know where to turn, I recommend that you at least join us on the chorus.

"Love lifted me! Love Lifted me!
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me!"