This 19th century hymn was composed by a minister of the Gospel who was called the “Sunshine Minister” because of his normally happy disposition. However, after a series of heartbreaks shattered his spirits, he found himself in the unfamiliar valley of depression and despondency. At length, he “collapsed into the Everlasting Arms” and the truth of 1 Peter 5:7 suddenly took hold of him: “…casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” The hymn was born out of that experience. Let the answer to the questions bless you as you contemplate the Promise that inspires it:
Does Jesus care when my heart is pained
Too deeply for mirth and song;
As the burdens press and the cares distress,
And the way grows weary and long?
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 I find no relief,
Tho my tears flow all the night long?
Does Jesus care when I’ve said good-bye
To the dearest on earth to me,
And my sad heart aches till it nearly breaks -
Is it aught to Him? Does He see?
O 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!
I must get Daniel to learn that one sometime on the piano. Love, Lana.