I wrote this piece with my friend and collaborator, Ruth Eldredge Thomas, and always appreciate her expertise on Piano and Organ. This piece paints a picture of different ways we endure the trials of this life — sometimes by coming to know Christ through learning his Word, sometimes with brave dedication and work, sometimes with peaceful service, some times by enduring doubts, but always with Love and Hope. The lyrics remind us of this endurance through imagery of many of the Names of Christ.
Press forward ever feasting on the word of Christ! * Press forward, ever forward, amid this world of strife. * For Hope is shining through the clouds with love for all mankind * Pressing forward, ever forward, unto Eternal Life!
When called to brave new trials, trauma, weight or pain, * The Holy Word is with you now, a balm for toil and strain * With promise in His Healing Wings, and Hope to purge all stain, * Drinking of His Living Water to calm your soul’s complaint.
So let us serve each other with the Love of God. * For when we tend our neighbor’s field, we’re born of gospel sod. * We come to know our Father’s work with faith that we belong. * Pressing forward, oh, so gently. Be still and know your God.
Press forward, ever trusting in the Bread of Life * With heart to do your Father’s will whenever doubts arise * For perfect love casts out all fear with Peace to fill the mind * Pressing forward, ever forward, we’ll come to know the Christ!
Unto Eternal Life!