The ship was…in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves…Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea…when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying,
Matthew 14:24–27It is a spirit
; and they cried out for fear…Jesus spoke to them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
Words: Peter Vogel, in The Children’s Hallelujah, edited by James H. Rosecrans & James Fillmore (Cincinnati, Ohio: Fillmore Brothers, 1886), page 53.
Music: Maiduguri James H. Fillmore, Sr., 1886 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Vogel (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
When the waves in terror rolled,
All in helpless graves t’enfold,
Then the Lord of Life drew nigh,
Saying calmly, It is I;
It is I, be not afraid,
I whose might creation made.
When the world in hatred strong,
Rages on thee oft and long,
Let the Lord of Life draw nigh,
Speaking calmly, It is I;
It is I, be not afraid,
I who render timely aid.
When our natures, prone to sin,
Roll in passions fierce within,
Lord of Life, do Thou draw nigh,
Speak the solace—It is I;
It is I, be not afraid,
I who help you when dismayed.