There Is a Balm in Gilead (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 614)
Refrain:
There is a balm in Gilead
to make the wounded whole;
there is a balm in Gilead
to heal the sin-sick soul.
1 Sometimes I feel discouraged
and think my work’s in vain,
but then the Holy Spirit
revives my soul again. [Refrain]
2 If you cannot preach like Peter,
if you cannot pray like Paul,
you can tell the love of Jesus
and say, “He died for all.” [Refrain]
3 Don’t ever be discouraged,
for Jesus is your friend;
and if you lack for knowledge,
he’ll not refuse to lend. [Refrain]
Text and Music: African American spiritual; Public Domain
Devotion
My childhood church camp was on the banks of a gorgeous rushing river. The river would sparkle in the sunshine, reflecting the rays of light into a dazzling display. The flowing current surged around massive boulders. Deep pools would form with brisk and refreshing water. That river captured my imagination as a child. It was a place where we could splash and play during hot summer afternoons. The river also functioned as an amazing backdrop to Bible studies and moments of reflection. I could get lost in the sound of the water flowing over the rocks and stones. It was a refuge of peace. At times when I feel discouraged or think that my work is in vain, I think back to that rushing river. A sense of peace washes over me and I am restored.
Prayer
Dear God, you are our peace and refuge. We celebrate and rejoice in your holy presence. Amen.