"Rabbi, carest Thou not that we perish?"

Sunday's gospel lesson was Mark 4:35-41 where we learn of a stormy boat trip taken by Jesus and his disciples. I have always liked this passage for many reasons. 1. Christ seemed oblivious to the storm; He was asleep. 2. The disciples accused Him of not caring what happened to them. 3. Jesus commanded the wind and waves to be still and they were! 4. The disciples were filled with awe. (And they apparently still did not understand who Jesus was.)

While choosing hymns for the service I recalled this hymn from my early years and would like to share it with you, my reader. It has been many years since I have sung it! You can read a little about how the words were written and hear the tune here.

Master, the tempest is raging! The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o'ershadowed with blackness, No shelter or help is nigh;
Carest Thou not that we perish? How canst Thou lie asleep,
When each moment so madly is threat'ning A grave in the angry deep?

Chorus
The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will, Peace, be still!
Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea,
Or demons, or men, or whatever it be,
No waters can swallow the ship where lies
The Master of ocean, and earth, and skies:
They all shall sweetly obey Thy will,
Peace, be still! Peace, be still!
They all shall sweetly obey Thy will,
Peace, peace be still!

Master, with anguish of spirit I bow in my grief today;
The depths of my sad heart are troubled - Oh, waken and save, I pray!
Torrents of sin and of anguish Sweep o'er my sinking soul,
And I perish! I perish! dear Master - Oh, hasten, and take control.

Master, the terror is over, The elements sweetly rest;
Earth's sun in the calm lake is mirrored, And heaven's within my breast;
Linger, O blessed Redeemer! Leave me alone no more,
And with joy I shall make the blest harbor, And rest on the blissful shore.

Words by Mary A. Baker Music by H.R. Palmer