The timeless hymn, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” resonates deeply with those seeking solace and reassurance. Written by Civilla Martin in 1905, this song is more than just a beautiful melody; it’s a powerful testament to unwavering faith and the comforting belief in God’s constant care. Let’s delve into the inspiring story behind this beloved hymn and explore its enduring message.
The genesis of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” is rooted in a visit Civilla Martin and her evangelist husband, Walter Stillman Martin, paid to Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle in Elmira, New York. Despite Mrs. Doolittle being bedridden for nearly two decades and Mr. Doolittle navigating life in a wheelchair due to a crippling condition, the couple radiated an extraordinary sense of joy and Christian faith. Intrigued by their unwavering optimism amidst hardship, Walter Martin inquired about their secret to such hopefulness. Mrs. Doolittle’s simple yet profound reply, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me,” struck a chord with Civilla and Walter. This expression of simple, boundless faith ignited their imagination and became the cornerstone for the hymn we cherish today.
Mrs. Doolittle’s insightful statement draws directly from scripture, specifically referencing verses in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Matthew 6:26 encourages believers to “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Similarly, Matthew 10:29-31 (and its parallel in Luke 12:6-7) emphasizes God’s meticulous care: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father’s will. And even the hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” These passages underscore the profound message that if God cares for the sparrows, creatures of small value, how much more immense is His care for humanity.
Further enriching the hymn’s lyrical depth, Civilla Martin incorporated John 14:1 into the second stanza’s opening line. This verse, “Let not your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me,” adds another layer of comfort and directly addresses anxieties and worries. It reinforces the hymn’s theme of finding peace through faith and trust in God’s promises.
While Civilla and Walter Martin penned the heartfelt lyrics, they sought a fitting melody to accompany their powerful words. They turned to Charles H. Gabriel, a renowned composer of gospel songs. Gabriel masterfully crafted the music that perfectly captured the hymn’s spirit, and “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” quickly gained popularity. Ever since, this song has been widely embraced across denominations and generations, becoming a cherished anthem of hope and divine assurance.
The lyrics themselves further amplify the hymn’s comforting nature:
Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant Friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.
These words articulate a journey from doubt and potential despair to joy and freedom, all grounded in the unwavering belief in God’s watchful eye. “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” is more than just a song; it is a reminder of God’s compassionate and tender care, offering peace and encouragement to all who listen. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound message of hope, faith, and the comforting knowledge that even in life’s trials, we are never truly alone.
