In 1969, the popular singing duo of Simon and Garfunkel released one of their biggest hits, “Bridge Over Troubled Waters.”
The song begins “When you’re weary/feeling small/when tears are in our eyes/I will dry them all.” According to Paul Simon, the song was inspired by an old gospel song recorded by the Swan Silvertones entitled “Oh Mary Don’t You Weep” whose lyrics are “I’ll be your bridge over deep water/if you trust in My name.”
While the Simon and Garfunkel song refers to a loyal, earthly friend, the Silvertones really had the “best friend” in mind. Isaiah 43:1-3 reminds us of who our most loyal and true friend is when He says: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”
Many are overwhelmed with critical health problems. Others have endured the loss of loved ones. Still others are facing financial uncertainty. We are beyond ourselves and our earthly friends. Only Jesus the Lord, our true source of all comfort, can dry all the tears in our eyes.
