We all love hymns. They’re core to practicing our faith. That’s one of the reasons why our inability to gather for worship now is so frustrating. We hear the Gospel message through the words and tunes that touch our souls. I have found that knowing the story behind a hymn can make it even more meaningful. That’s certainly true for “It is Well with My Soul.”

The writer, Horatio Spafford, was a successful Chicago businessman who lost a fortune in the great Chicago fire of 1871. His four-year-old son died in 1873. A few years later the family planned a European vacation together, but sudden business matters held Mr. Spafford back. His wife and four daughters went ahead and he promised to follow them soon.

Unfortunately, while crossing the North Atlantic, the ship with mother and daughters sank in a collision with another ocean liner. 226 people lost their lives, including all four daughters. When Mrs. Spafford arrived safely in England she sent a telegram to her husband which said, “Saved alone. What shall I do?”

Spafford immediately set out for England. As they sailed the North Atlantic the captain told him of the spot where his daughters had perished. As he scanned the waves and grieved his daughters Spafford was inspired to write the words of our hymn:

When peace like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll.

Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well, with my soul.

As one who has known tragedy similar to Spafford’s, I find the story especially meaningful. During this tumultuous time of disease and social unrest I pray that the hymn and the story behind it will calm your soul. It tells the tale of a faithful God who carries us through life’s darkest times. Yes, waves may crash over us and sorrows will come, but God’s embrace allows us to say, “it is well with my soul.”

I look forward to singing this hymn with you!

– Rolf Olson, Visitation Pastor

And the peace of God,
which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds
in Christ Jesus.

– Philippians 4:7