New Original Song: Be With Me

It's been a while since I've written a song for worship at Grosse Ile Presbyterian Church.  It's something I've always loved doing, but as other work, family, and musical pursuits have become important to me, I've stopped my regular songwriting practice.  With nearly everything put on hold by social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, I've chosen to start again.  

This song was inspired by the liturgy of the 3-29-2020 GIPC virtual church service, Matthew 4:1-11. I wrote the lyrics to incorporate the Word and my own feelings of isolation at this time.  I recorded the basic tracks, and created the sheet music in Finale.  I sent them to GIPC pianist/organist Douglas Scott, who wrote the flute part.  He and his wife, flutist Carole Scott, recorded the piano and flute parts in their living room, and sent the parts to be incorporated into the project.  

I hope this song brings you peace in this uncertain time.  

NOTE: This song will premiere during the virtual worship service at GIPC's Facebook page at 10:30am on Sunday, March 29.  The above video will go live at 11:30am on the same day. 

“Be With Me”

I do not live on bread alone
but on the words from your lips
Two score days and nights 
in the wilderness I listen for you in my isolation 

I pray to feel your peace
Hoping in my stillness
You’ll come to me

Be with me, oh God
Be with me, oh my Lord
When I turn off all the noise     
I feel so ill at ease 
The din has become 
A part of me
You sent the enemy away,  
So I shall find my peace
Holding on to You 
With my belief
Be with me, oh God
Be with me, oh my Lord
I’m lost  because I feel closest to You  
When I’m among a crowd
I pray to feel your presence with me now

Be with me, oh God
Be with me, oh my Lord