“I Will Sing” by Rich Mullins

I will sing for the meek

For those who pray

With their very lives for peace

Though they’re in chains

For a higher call

Their mourning will change into laughter

When the nations fall

In spirit poor, in mercy rich

They hunger for your righteousness

Their hearts refined into purity

Lord, let me shine for them

Lord, let me sing

Lord, let me shine for them

Lord, let me sing

Dear God, I used to sing this as part of a trio of songs I sang for my children when I would put them to bed when they were little. This was the lead-off song. I hoped at the time it would plant seeds of compassion in them. I still hope it did.

The truth is, there is a lot of suffering in the world that I have zero clue how to address or as to what my role in alleviating it should be. What does “shining for them” look like?

I guess the conclusion I’ve come to is that shining for them is all about following my convictions and callings. There are some things I can do and there are many more things I cannot do. And no matter how much I do, it will not come close to helping even a percentage. But you didn’t call me to solve the world’s problems. You called me to respond to your still small voice. As long as I don’t find myself living in denial, hiding in a cave like Elijah, I am more than likely on the right track.

Father, bless the work of my hands. Help me to know what to do, what not to do, and to do everything through your leadership and for your glory. Help me to be shrewd and wise. Help me to be encouraging and to point people to you. And help all of us through these difficult worldly times.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen