So Will I (100 Billion X)

My favorite worship-oriented song this year turned out to be a controversial one once I started looking into it. All thanks to a single word/line. It is a shame that it has been disdained by some, because it is a great example of poetic yet theological art.

The song is an example of one of the more old-fashioned hymns, where each verse/section builds upon and expands an idea, all while carrying a uniting thread throughout.

The first verse meditates on God as Creator. It is wonderfully expressive as it talks about God’s word animating creation as God’s will is absolutely established. God’s word is a multilevel metaphor, communicating God’s will and sovereignty, but also speaking to the way He established the laws that govern the universe. Related to that is a wonderful line, where the planets form in “in the vapor” of God’s breath. This image marries the theological Word with the science of what we observe in God’s creation, as we today witness the formation of planets when we peer into the depths of the universe.

The take-away in this first verse is the idea of creation’s purpose—God’s glory—and how we, as a part of creation should glorify God as well.

The next verse speaks to God’s sustaining promises. He is faithful and loving and in total control. This is a reality that behaves according to laws and rules. We do not live in the creation of a fickle God. He also doesn’t just watch the universe spin on in the course He established, but He guides it. This is where the controversial line is, as it declares that creatures “evolve.”

It is an unfortunate choice to be sure. Mostly due to the ways it can miscommunicate. But it should not be a problem. Evolution is an attack on faith when one declares that it renders God unnecessary. Those who believe that God used evolution to create are not in theological error. Perhaps shaky science, but that depends as well. The fact that creatures have changed over time and that they have according to God’s plan is accurate. One does not have to think that macroevolution is real to admit that microevolution is happening. In the end, it only hurts this song as it distracts.

And what it distracts form is the take-away of this verse. If all creation follows God’s plan and will, so should we.

The bridge reinforces this, as it speaks of the many ways that creation worships and glorifies God. This is our purpose and we should recognize it and embrace it.

Then, the third verse takes things to a new level focusing on God as Savior. His word this time declares those He saves to be justified. And it is possible because God came to the creation He made and died for our sins! Not just us, but everyone around us. And, not only are we made to worship, but following the example of Christ, we are to dedicate our lives to bringing all humanity into that realization.

If He chose surrender, so should we. If He gave his life to rescue us, we should give our lives for others.

It is a powerful reminder!