\”When Jacob Awoke\” was originally written for outdoor worship, at church camps or retreats. The biblical story of Jacob waking up (in more ways than one) and recognizing that God was in that remote place has been very central to my theology of worship. The whole world is sacramental, able to show forth the presence and grace of God. We just have to be awake enough to notice. Then, anywhere can be a \”thin place,\” where earth and heaven touch, and we become aware of the deeper communion in which we live.
On my 23rd birthday (February 23rd), I got up before daybreak and joined hundreds of Hindu pilgrims walking down to the beach in Kanyakumari, at the very southern tip of India. There is a pilgrimage site there, known as the Gate of Heaven. As the sun rises, pilgrims wade into the water, and in that space between sea and land, offer prayers. That experience has stayed with me, and was part of the inspiration for the song.
Has this song connected with your story? Or has it been a part of a particular season of your life? You are welcome to weave another thread into the tapestry of this song by leaving comments below.
October 21, 2014 @ 12:59 am
When Jacob awoke, for me, is a beautiful metaphor representing the long time it took me to grow up and to realize that God has been so intimately and divinely close to each and every one of us. To wake up and to find God forever with us is simply amazing.
I truly encourage you, Christopher, to consider producing another album as a follow up to: “Stepping In.”
Your talent, your music, and your ministry are certainly appreciated.
Is there another album in the making?
October 21, 2014 @ 3:30 pm
Thanks, James. Amazing, yes. This passage from Genesis is such a touchstone passage for me. That sense of waking up seems to make worship – and by extension all of life – come alive.
I am currently working on a book, but hope to record again after that. Also, the 21 songs on “Stepping In” were selected from more than 60 worship songs, not all of which were good enough to record. It may take me a while to come up with a pool from which I can choose the best. Stay tuned. Peace.