From the recording Sparrow
I wrote this song in 2005 in the desert town where I first began to study the language and culture of the people group I love. This anthem is for everyone who moves overseas and bends their knees, their heart, and their tongue in humility to learn a new language and cross into a new cultural world. The song of the redeemed is achingly beautiful -- and not yet complete. Thousands of languages around the world are still waiting to be invited to join the choir. When we allow ourselves to be led through that lonely place of brokenness, we can stand and sing to broken hearts, and wipe away their tears.
Lyrics
You went through fire for me
you walked through thorns for me
you let the vultures gather
as your throat dried to a croak
you loved me with your gasps and with your groans
So I will wrap my tongue around
this foreign speech
I will get up every morning
and worship you my king
in the darkness I will set my face as flint
and I will not be ashamed
On my knees I wait...
Teach me the song of the redeemed
that I might stand and sing to broken hearts
lead me through that lonely place
that I might weep with those who weep
You satisfy my thirst in a dry and barren land
in you I find relief from all my fears
you cover me with goodness like the rain upon the sand
in you I find the strength that dries my tears
On my knees I wait...
Teach me the song of the redeemed
that I might stand and sing to broken hearts
lead me through that lonely place
that I might weep with those who weep
and wipe every tear from their eyes
So try me in my arrogance
break me of my pride
sear away my selfishness
burn away the lies
meet me in your holiness
teach me to abide
woo me with your tenderness
til I am broken inside
On my knees I wait...