Commissioned by an organist for the first anniversary of the death of a loved one, these two pieces are based on contrasting psalm verses: "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted" (Ps. 34:18) and "I will praise the Lord all my days; making music while I live" (Ps. 146:2). Composer Alan Hommerding united these pieces with a common theme, and transforms it as the mourner's spirit is transformed by faith.