I don’t recall the first time I heard this song, but it was popular during my college days. For those called to the mission field, this became their anthem. For those going into ministry, these lyrics shared their heart’s desire. And even the student and music ministry crowd could use these words as a statement.

But what about the students, like me, who were caught between majors? To be honest, I just wanted to learn about God’s Word. Forget the classes that I had to take along the way to fulfill the requirements of my major. I suspect that’s why I have so many credits and I’m nowhere near a college degree!

Well, for everyone who didn’t fall into the above categories, the message of this song is still our anthem, our heart’s desire, and our statement. As a matter of fact, it fits in nicely with my personal mission statement.

“With God’s Spirit leading me,

I will direct others to Jesus through my

words, actions, writing, teaching, prayer, and example.”

My personal mission statement expresses my desire to share God’s message with others. That’s what this particular song shares as well. Whatever the mission, use me.

I have been amazed at how God has used me through the years when I least expected it. Mentoring and teaching has always been a part of who I am, but it’s mainly been in the local church.

However, when God’s call came for me to go to a foreign mission field, I was surprised. God had never touched my heart in that way before. But what was I to say except, “here I am, Lord!”

So as you read through these lyrics and listen to this melody, I pray that you will stop and focus on what God is calling you to do. Whether it’s to go around the world or across the street, I pray that you will listen to His voice and that you will say, “here I am, Lord!”

“Here I Am, Lord”

I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard My people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin,
My hand will save.

I who made the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear My light to them?
Whom shall I send?

Chorus:

Here I am Lord, It is I Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain,
I have borne my peoples pain.
I have wept for love of them,

They turn away.

I will break their hearts of stone,
Give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak My word to them,
Whom shall I send?

(Chorus)

I, the Lord of wind and flame,
I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them,
My hand will save

Finest bread I will provide,
Till their hearts be satisfied.
I will give My life to them,
Whom shall I send?

(Chorus)[i]

Click here to listen to John Michael Talbot’s version of this song.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Here I Am, Lord,” Dan Schutte, 1981, OCP Publications.