A new hymn-meditation written for congregational singing: It can be sung anytime but especially when there is emotional and mental confusion when tragedy strikes, whether from senseless terrorists killing people at a nightclub in Orlando, a tsunami overwhelms land and people, or wars and rumors of war that break out and upset the soul. So sing and affirm: Hear us, O Father, kindly hear; Let Sovereign grace now calm our fear.

Hear Us, O Father

All humankind in grief and woe
Now writhes in anguish here below.
Hear us, O Father, kindly hear,
Man’s hate destroys life You hold dear
Hear us, O Father, kindly hear;
Turn hearts to you, and not to fear.

Some trust in men with steel in hand,
Some hope for goodness in our land,
Some put their faith in princes great,
To stanch the bloody flow of hate.
Hear us, O Father, kindly hear;
Fill us with hope instead of fear.

But we will trust in You, Lord Christ,
And look to Your great sacrifice
For grace to stand with those who bleed,
And faith to share with those in need.
Hear us, O Father, kindly hear;
Grant hearts of love instead of fear.

You are the Savior, Holy one,
Eternal Father, Spirit, Son;
Your Kingdom over all prevails,
Your lovingkindness never fails.
Hear us, O Father, kindly hear;
Let Sovereign grace now calm our fear.

MELITA,  8.8.8.8.8.8. (“Eternal Father, Strong to Save”)

© 2016 Stephen D. Lawton

All rights reserved—permission granted for use in public worship.

Stephen D. Lawton is Director of Music and Worship and Director of Senior Adult Ministries at Mitchell Road Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Greenville, South Carolina.