Precious Lord, Take My Hand

An opportunity for testimony born out of a time of loss, grief, and chaos is recorded in the song “Precious Lord,” written by Thomas Dorsey. Thomas Dorsey, born in 1889 in rural Georgia, was a prolific songwriter and an excellent gospel and blues musician. While a young man, Dorsey moved to Chicago and found work as a piano player in the churches as well as in clubs and playing in theatres. Struggling to support his family, Dorsey divided his time between playing in the clubs and playing in the church. After some time of turbulence, Dorsey devoted his artistry exclusively to the church.

In August of 1932, Thomas Dorsey left his pregnant wife in Chicago and traveled to be the featured soloist at a large revival meeting in Saint Louis, Missouri. After the first night of the revival, Dorsey received a telegram that simply stated, “Your wife just died.” Dorsey raced home and learned that his wife had given birth to a son before dying in childbirth. The next day his son died as well. Dorsey buried his wife and son in the same casket and withdrew in sorrow and agony from his family and friends. He refused to compose or play any music for quite some time.

While still in the midst of despair, Dorsey said that as he sat in front of a piano, a feeling of peace washed through him. He heard a melody in his head that he had never heard before and began to play it on the piano. That night Dorsey recorded this testimony while in the midst of suffering:

“Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand;
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn;
Through the storm, through the night,
Lead me on to The Light;
Take my hand, Precious Lord,
Lead me home.”

Epiphany is the Season of Light: The Light of Christ, which no darkness can overcome. Thomas Dorsey was given that gift of Light, The Light of Christ, just as we all have been given that gift. Even in the midst of darkness, chaos, and despair you are given The Light. Allow that Light to shine in the midst of the darkness of our world, so that others may also see the Hope, Love, and Peace offered, as a Gift, from God – The Light of the world, Jesus The Christ.

May the Peace of The LORD be with you through this new year, and always. A very Blessed New Year, 2021, to you!

Sincerely,
Pastor Jon Beake