Today’s hymn is from William Cowper (1731-1800), included in the Olney Hymns under the title of “Jehovah-Raphi, I am the Lord that healeth thee, Exod. xv.” The text draws upon different healing narratives found in Matthew, Mark and Luke. With Cowper suffering with his own trials, including an attempted suicide, I’m sure at least part of this hymn is a plea on behalf of himself. Enjoy!
Heal us, Emmanuel, hear our prayer;
we wait to feel thy touch;
deep-wounded souls to thee repair,
and Saviour, we are such.
Our faith is feeble, we confess
we faintly trust thy word;
but wilt thou pity us the less?
Be that far from thee, Lord!
Remember him who once applied
with trembling for relief;
“Lord, I believe,” with tears he cried;
“O help my unbelief!”
She, too, who touched thee in the press
and healing virtue stole,
was answered, “Daughter, go in peace:
thy faith hath made thee whole.”
Like her, with hopes and fears we come
to touch thee if we may;
O send us not despairing home;
send none unhealed away.
Hymn of the Day 