NeuroDivine

Psalm 107 honours those “who go down to the sea in ships,” discovering God’s steadfast love in storm and stillness alike. For Fr Mark Jackson, this truth has shaped years of ministry among those who serve upon the waters—through long watches, changing horizons, and the steadfast presence of God from Gibraltar’s Rock to every strait and channel. During his time in Gibraltar, his pastoral care reached many, including those of us who found strength and encouragement through his kindness. Now serving on shore in England, he continues to carry that same calm courage and compassionate witness. Offered in thanksgiving for his chaplaincy, this hymn gives voice to gratitude for a faithful servant who has borne Christ’s peace across the tides and now shares that wisdom on land.

1
You who call us through the waters,
You whose voice is on the deep,
Guide the ones who sail in service,
Guard the watch they rise to keep.
When the storm around is roaring,
When the swell begins to rise,
Still the heart of those who labour
’Neath the ever‑changing skies.

2
You have walked the shore at morning,
You have stilled the winds at night;
You have held your saints in danger,
You have led them into light.
Bless the chaplain on the ocean,
Bearing hope from wave to wave;
May his words be harbour, shelter,
May his presence heal and save.

3
By the Rock of old Gibraltar,
Where the tides in meeting run,
You have kept your faithful servants
Till their wandering work was done.
Be the strength that stands beside him,
Be the peace that calms his fear;
In the strait where nations gather,
Let your steadfast love draw near.

4
Spirit, like a circling currach,
Hover o’er the restless foam;
Christ, the strong and gentle Pilot,
Steer your servant safely home.
For the wonders you have shown him,
For the storms your peace made still,
Take our thanks, O Holy Keeper,
Guide him ever by your will.

Written as a thanksgiving for the ministry of Fr Mark Jackson.

Text copyright (c) 2026 Michael McFarland Campbell.

The image is of the King’s Chapel in Gibraltar at Christmas 2014 when we were both there.