Love Lifted Me

Growing up in the Baptist church, the music I heard and sang every Sunday would be referred to today as traditional (or old-time) gospel. There have been more than a few times recently when those tunes come to my mind and help ease my troubles. How many of those traditional songs do you remember? (written 12 Nov 07)

When I first learned to play the piano, most of the non-lesson music I learned was from the hymnals we had at home. Gospel music was easier for me to learn because I knew the tune, and I knew the words. (Sang loudly enough, they could help mask my mistakes) As any music fan can tell you, most songs tell a story. Gospel music is no exception to this rule.

One of my favorite gospel songs is "Love Lifted Me." I don't have a hymnal in front of me, nor can I access the internet at the moment to credit its author. Think of the words and the power they hold.

I was sinking deep in sin
far from the peaceful shore
very deeply
stained within
sinking to rise no more
but the master of the sea
heard my despairing cry
from the waters lifted me now safe am I

love lifted me
love lifted me
when nothing else could help
love lifted me

A love so powerful that it lifted a sinner from the depths ... imagine such a love. That love is given freely and without condition to us by Jesus. He does not put restrictions on our receiving His love, we only have to ask to receive this gift. I have experienced this unconditional love. Being loved by Jesus is comparable to being wrapped in the ultimate security blanket. There is no depth so deep that He cannot retrieve us. When we send forth that "despairing cry" begging His salvation, He freely and unconditionally gives it to us.

Jesus, praising your name the rest of my days will still not begin to repay the gift you have freely given me. Thank you for the unrestrained and fulfilling love you bring to my life with your presence. May I always have the words to share the peace you have given me.

"But you, O Sovereign LORD, deal well with me for your name's sake; out of the goodness of your love, deliver me. For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me."~Psalm 109:21-22 NIV