Desert Island Hymns

Be Still for the Presence of the Lord" a contemporary hymn written in 1986 by British songwriter David J. Evans a Hampshire based piano teacher is Jeanette Brooks’ choice for today. Evans was involved in the charismatic movement but felt that some of its worship risked treating God in a trivial fashion. Specifically, he was inspired by the phrase in the Old Testament 7 – "then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said 'surely the Lord is in this place and I did not know it.'" Also inspirational was Exodus 3: 1–6, where Moses met the Yahweh at the burning bush.

This hymn has been heard on the BBC's Songs of Praise and was voted as one of the UK's 10 most popular hymns in 2019.

Being still in the presence of the Lord is a recurring theme throughout scripture. There are two key texts in the Psalms; Psalm 46 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 37:7 “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!” Perhaps something easier to read or even sing than to do.

For me the words of Jesus hold a deep significance; Mark 4:39 “And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” Even in the presence of Jesus, with the memory of his words fresh in their minds, the disciples doubted. Like them, perhaps we need to learn how to bring my doubts and questions to Jesus and listen for his answer in the stillness of his presence.

Be still, for the presence of the Lord,

The holy One, is here;

Come bow before him now

With reverence and fear

In him no sin is found

We stand on holy ground.

Be still, for the presence of the Lord,

The holy One, is here.

Be still, for the glory of the Lord

Is shining all around;

He burns with holy fire,

With splendour he is crowned:

How awesome is the sight

Our radiant king of light!

Be still, for the glory of the Lord

Is shining all around.

Be still, for the power of the Lord

Is moving in this place:

He comes to cleanse and heal,

To minister his grace -

No work too hard for him.

In faith receive from him.

Be still, for the power of the Lord