Then Sings My Soul Saturday - Does Jesus Care?

I've had several songs running through my head this week, but for some reason I keep coming back to this one today. Like so many of the wonderful old hymns, it was inspired by a difficult season in life.

A Methodist minister, Frank Graef was known for his sunny disposition and his optimistic outlook. In fact, he was known as the "sunshine minister" of Philadelphia. But he also experienced many trials in his life. During a time of severe depression, doubt, and physical difficulty, he was comforted by the words found in I Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you. As a result of the assurance he received from this verse, he penned the words of this song.

Amazing Grace: 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions by Kenneth W. Osbeck, 2001

What a blessed comfort that Jesus does indeed care about all we go through. I especially love this version of this comforting song. Like the composer, Mark Lowry is also best known for laughter and Christian comedy, but his faith is deep and true, and you can tell as he sings that this song is indeed a personal testimony.

DOES JESUS CARE?
Does Jesus care when my heart is pained
Too deeply for mirth or song,
As the burdens press, and the cares distress,
And the way grows weary and long?

CHORUS:
Oh, yes, He cares, I know He cares,
His heart is touched with my grief;
When the days are weary, the long nights dreary,
I know my Savior cares.

Does Jesus care when my way is dark
With a nameless dread and fear?
As the daylight fades into deep night shades,
Does He care enough to be near?

Does Jesus care when I’ve tried and failed
To resist some temptation strong;
When for my deep grief there is no relief,
Though my tears flow all the night long?

Does Jesus care when I’ve said “goodbye”
To the dearest on earth to me,
And my sad heart aches till it nearly breaks—
Is it aught to Him? Does He see?

WORDS: Frank Graef, 1901
MUSIC: J. Lincoln Hall, 1901

Amy has more songs for your weekend!