It is I; be not afraid.
Matthew 14:27
Words: Isaiah Baltzell, in the New Starry Crown, edited by Aldine Kieffer (Singers Glen, Virginia: Ruebush-Kieffer, 1877).
Music: Aldine S. Kieffer (🔊 pdf nwc).
When the storm in its fury
On Galilee fell,
And lifted its waters on high,
And the faithless disciples
Were bound in the spell,
Jesus whispered, Fear not, it is I.
Refrain
It is I, it is I
;
Fear not, trembling one, It is I.
In the midst of the storm,
In the midst of the gloom,
Fear not, trembling one, It is I.
The storm could not bury
That word in the wave,
’Twas taught thro’ the tempest to fly;
It shall reach His disciples
In every clime,
Saying, Be not afraid, it is I.
Refrain
When the spirit is broken
With sorrow and care,
And comfort is ready to die,
Then the darkness shall pass,
And the sunshine appear,
By the life giving word, It is I.
Refrain
When death is at hand,
And the cottage of clay
Is left with a tremulous sigh,
The gracious Redeemer
Will light all the way,
With the soul cheering word, It is I.
Refrain
When the river is passed,
And the glories unknown
Burst forth on the wondering eye,
He will welcome, encourage,
And comfort His own,
Saying, Be not afraid, it is I.
Refrain