For this month’s installment of secular worship songs, I’m featuring a suggestion by a faithful reader.
Answer by Sarah McLachlan
I will be the answer
At the end of the line
I will be there for you
While you take the time
In the burning of uncertainty
I will be your solid ground
I will hold the balance
If you can’t look down
If it takes my whole life
I won’t break, I won’t bend
It will all be worth it
Worth it in the end
Cause I can only tell you what I know
That I need you in my life
When the stars have all gone out
You’ll still be burning so bright
Cast me gently
Into morning
For the night has been unkind
Take me to a
Place so holy
That I can wash this from my mind
The memory of choosing not to fight
If it takes my whole life
I won’t break, I won’t bend
It will all be worth it
Worth it in the end
‘Cause I can only tell you what I know
That I need you in my life
When the stars have all burned out
You’ll still be burning so bright
Cast me gently
Into morning
For the night has been unkind
I appreciate Sarah McLachlan’s music. I love her voice and enjoy her songwriting style. This song in particular, I find absolutely beautiful.
I searched for the “real” meaning behind the song, but only found various fan’s opinions. Most seemed to think it was a love ballad, which is probably accurate. But for our purposes, seeking the sacred in the secular, I see it as a conversation between God and the singer. I especially like the line, “Cast me gently into morning, for the night has been unkind.” I see this as a prayer, and it reminds me of the Scripture, “Weeping may stay for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)
What do you think of this song? Is it just a love song, or do you sense some spiritual elements to it?
I’m not surprised by the spiritual elements of songs. We are all, whether we follow Christ or not, spiritual beings. I also happen to like McLachlan’s music.
Is it bad when you mention McLachlan I just think of those sad puppy commercials with her music playing? Oh great now I’m all sad. Sheeeeesh 😉 haha
No, Drew would have said the same thing. 🙂
Jamie,
It still moves me every time I hear it. In a spiritual sense I want to be the kind of person who has this type of integrity and loyalty towards the ones I love and that “I will be the answer at the end of the line; I will be there for you… in the burning uncertainty I will be your solid ground.” I for them and they for me. I am glad you liked this song.
Beautiful thoughts.