Reformation Lutheran Church A Congregation of the ELCA

March 18, 2018

Healer of Our Every Ill

Refrain: Healer of our every ill, light of each tomorrow,
Give us peace beyond our fear, and hope beyond our sorrow.

You who know our fears and sadness, grace us with your peace and gladness;
Spirit of all comfort, fill our hearts. (Refrain)

In the pain and joy beholding, how your grace is still unfolding,
Give us all your vision, God of love. (Refrain)

Give us strength to love each other, every sister, every brother;
Spirit of all kindness, be our guide. (Refrain)

You who know each thought and feeling, teach us all your way of healing;
Spirit of compassion, fill each heart. (Refrain)

Text: Marty Haugen, b. 1950

As a nurse, this hymn holds special meaning for me. When we are ill in a hospital or doctor’s office, the goal is to bring about healing of the sickness or injury being treated. Most often we think of healing in regard to physical illness or injury; but there is much more to consider. Of equal or greater importance can be the healing of mental or emotional needs—sadness, fear, loneliness, self-doubt, depression—conditions that can bring about suffering but are often difficult to treat. All of this led me to choose this hymn as a personal favorite.

For those facing the terminal illness of a loved one, God can bring strength and comfort with his love and peace. Some say they can even feel God’s presence around them. I know this to be true.

Our greatest healer is God! When someone in our family, a friend, a member of our church, or anyone requests prayers we turn to God, believing that he can help.

Seeing someone singing softly at the bedside of a person facing death shows how comfort can be given in those final days. For those dealing with the terminal illness of a loved one, God can bring strength and comfort with his presence, giving love and peace.

Let us pray to God to lead us in giving comfort to help one another. Love and Peace !!!

Barbara Lee



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