song for the sorrowing

While we're on the topic of songs for the discouraged, here's a wonderful song for the sorrowing.

I was listening to Furthermore by Jars of Clay yesterday, when "The Valley Song" came on. It struck me that this song is Psalm 42-43 in modern dress: it seems that some still know how to lament, cry out to God, and fight for joy. And it's one of the most beautiful Jars of Clay songs of all time. I only hope I can sing like this in the day of sorrow.

The Valley Song (Sing of Your Mercy)

You have led me to the sadness,
I have carried this pain
on a back bruised, nearly broken:
I'm crying out to You.

I will sing of Your mercy
that leads me through
valleys of sorrow
to rivers of joy.

When death, like a gypsy,
comes to steal what I love,
I will still look to the heavens,
I will still seek your face:
but I fear You aren't listening
because there are no words,
just the stillness,
and the hunger
for a faith that assures.

I will sing of Your mercy
that leads me through
valleys of sorrow
to rivers of joy.

alleluia, alleluia
alleluia, alleluia

While we wait for rescue
with our eyes tightly shut,
face to the ground, using our hands
to cover the fatal cut;
though the pain is an ocean
tossing us around, around, around;
You have calmed greater waters
higher mountains have come down.

I will sing of Your mercy
that leads me through
valleys of sorrow
to rivers of joy.

I will sing of Your mercy
that leads me through
valleys of sorrow
to rivers of joy.

alleluia, alleluia
alleluia, alleluia