March 1, 2018
You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore
You have come down to the lakeshore seeking neither the wise nor the wealthy,
but only asking for me to follow.
Refrain: Sweet Lord, you have looked into my eyes; kindly smiling, you’ve called out my name …
on the sand I have abandoned my small boat; now with you, I will seek other seas.
You know full well what I have, Lord; neither treasure nor weapons for conquest,
just these my fish nets and will for working. (Refrain)
You need my hands, my exhaustion, working love for the rest of the weary –
a love that’s willing to go on loving. (Refrain)
You who have fished other waters; you, the longing of souls that are yearning;
O loving Friend, you have come to call me. (Refrain)
Text: Cesaraeo Gabarain (1936-1991) tr. Madeleine Forell Marshall.
Both the music and lyrics of this hymn were composed by Cesareo Gabarain (1936-1991), a Spanish priest who was one of the best known composers of Spanish liturgical music. The lovely, gentle rhythm of the hymn is both soothing and appealing.
You Have Come Down to the Lakeshore tells the story of Jesus calling his disciples. He sought out ordinary people to do extraordinary work in his name. Jesus knew of their abilities and of their meager wealth, but chose them to be his closest companions. It is a hymn of commitment and discipleship.
Jesus also knows of our capabilities and our treasures and wants only that we be willing to share our gifts, whether great or small. Giving of ourselves to console those who are hurting, to comfort those who are grieving, and to love those in need of kindness is what he asks of us too, just as he asked when he called his disciples long ago.
This hymn invites us to follow Christ with obedience and love; to lay aside our own needs and to be of service to others. As we are moved by the gentle music, we can imagine ourselves in a slowly rocking boat near the lakeshore, peaceful and quiet, and can feel his call to serve.
Gracious Lord, help us to be open to your call and to respond with joy and eagerness to serve you with love and devotion.
Lotus Gerards
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