I can only imagine

The song “I Can Only Imagine,” by MercyMe, has been a family favorite since it first came out. I have vivid memories of this song and the lyrics cut me to the core every time I hear it. Such powerful words that make you put yourself inside the music and visualize yourself in the song’s summary. It causes you to imagine yourself in that very setting.

This song was one of my best friend, Frank Sieker’s, favorite songs, as well. A family friend sang this song at Frank’s wedding, and there is a funny story behind that too. Anyone who knew Frank knew he was a prankster, of sorts, and so was the family friend, Jay. So when Jay said he wanted to sing a song at Frank’s wedding and told us what song, we were all excited. During rehearsal, Jay got on stage and absolutely butchered the tune. We were all a little in shock, including Jay’s girlfriend at the time. I think we all, on different occasions in the 24 hours before the wedding, tried to convince him to just pass on singing the tune. Of course, some family members were in on the joke by the time he performed it at the vow ceremony and put us all in tears, and we all admitted that Jay pulled the wool over our eyes. He sang it beautifully.

A few years later, Frank returned home to heaven. We think of him every time we hear the song, and usually if we are traveling in a car somewhere when it comes across the speakers, we instinctively slow down. Because tradition has showed us that a deer sighting is about to occur. We hear the song, and then a deer crosses the road or stands watching us. It is a reminder to us all that we are not alone. Frank is still here with us and has experienced the lyrics of standing in front of the Son.

Recently, a movie by the same name has come out. It shows us all how the song came to exist. More powerful images and emotional wrecking balls, mixed with a new insight of how a song that has made such an impact on many can continue to morph, but be just as impactful. We get a flashback look into Bart Millard’s early childhood and how these little divine appointments were not so little in his life. We also realize that God has a plan for each of us, even when we don’t see Him at work. The song takes on a new life-restoring life of its own. We watched it as a family, some in honor of our loved one in heaven, but also for our own walks and where they may lead us.

So what is the point I am making today? First, listen to the song. I mean, really listen to it. Second, go see the movie, if you have not already. Those two things will impact you if you open your heart to the words and the imagery on the screen. My point is, we have no idea what is going to happen tomorrow; but we can be confident of one thing: if we let God in, if we allow him to really grab hold of us, we will be changed and he will never forsake us. God is at work in each and every one of our lives. We just need to put on the right lenses to see what he is doing and partner with him.

One day we will not have to imagine, no matter what we each believe. One day we will know for sure, without question. We will be standing in the glory, and we will know. I think it is important in this world of distractions and turmoil that we cling to the truth, that we live foundational lives of integrity and honesty, that we accept the mercy and grace of God and live in it. Seek out those who can answer your questions and let a thing you can only imagine become rock solid truth. I’m just saying.