There is an incredible song by Hillsong United called Oceans. There’s something about this song that goes to the very depths of my soul when I sing it. I don’t just sing it mindlessly, like we can all get in the habit of doing with certain worship songs. This song is an anthem, a reminder, a declaration. This was the song I kept singing over and over again after I was accepted on the race and had to start fundraising. This was the song I sang when I wasn’t sure if I was going to meet that first financial deadline. This is the song that I still sing, as we prepare to launch in January.
You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find you in the mystery
In oceans deep my faith will stand
Immediately I think of the story of Peter walking on the water found in Matthew 14:27-31.
“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
I love the courage that Peter has to step out of the boat and walk on the water. And even though he became afraid of the wind and waves, he knew who to call on to save him.
Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You’ve never failed and you won’t start now
I love that the verse says “Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.” He didn’t wait a few minutes. He didn’t reach out and save Peter when it was convenient for him. He reached out immediately and saved him. These verses demonstrate so much of Jesus’ love, grace and perfect timing.
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the water
Wherever you would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith would be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior
That’s the bridge of this incredible song. The bridge that I sing loudly with everything within me.
As a war cry.
The cry of my heart.
A declaration.
With hands lifted high in surrender, I sing this bridge, and I mean it.
And then Jesus asks the tough question, “Why did you doubt?”
We all do it. We doubt so easily and ever so quickly. Even after the incredible task of walking on the water. Let’s end that now. Let’s get rid of the doubt and begin to believe God for the impossible. Believe God for the things that He promises in his word. This song reminds me to TRUST God no matter how high the waves get. I know that it won’t be easy but I serve a God who is able to do immeasurably more than I could ever ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20)
I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine
Are you ready to step out of the boat? Are you willing to walk on the water?
Be well. Live well. Love well.
-Benita
