Softly and tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling for you and for me
See on the portal
He's waiting and watching
Watching for you and for me
Come home
Come home
He who are weary
Come home
Earnestly, tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling "Oh sinner, come home"
Why should we tarry
When Jesus is pleading
Pleading for you and for me
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies
Mercies for you and for me
Come home
Come home
He who are weary
Come home
Earnestly, tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling "Oh sinner, come home"
Time is now fleeting
While moments are passing
Passing from you and from me
Shadows are gathering
Deathbeds are calling
Come home
Come home
He who are weary
Come home
Earnestly, tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling "Oh sinner, come home"
Come home
Come home
He who are weary
Come home
Earnestly, tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling "Oh sinner, come home"
Oh come home (Oh if you're weary)
Oh sinner, come home (Oh if you're tired)
Come home
Earnestly, tenderly
Jesus is calling
Calling "Oh sinner, come home"
Softly And Tenderly by Audrey Assad is a beautiful and heartfelt rendition of the classic hymn. The song carries a message of hope, redemption, and God's unwavering love and invitation for all sinners to come home.
The lyrics of the song resonate with a deep longing for spiritual connection and a desire to respond to Jesus' gentle call. It begins with the lines, "Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me," setting the tone for the rest of the song.
The inspiration behind this song lies in the biblical concept of God's invitation for reconciliation and salvation. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This verse perfectly captures the essence of the song, as it echoes Jesus' compassionate plea for sinners to come to Him and find rest for their souls.
The song also draws inspiration from the parable of the prodigal son found in Luke 15:11-32. In the parable, a son leaves his father's home, squanders his inheritance, and finds himself in a state of despair. However, when he finally decides to return home, his father welcomes him with open arms. This powerful image of the father's unconditional love and forgiveness is reflected in the lyrics of the song, as it speaks of Jesus waiting and watching for us, longing for our return.
Throughout the song, Audrey Assad's rendition captures the emotional weight of the lyrics. Her soft and tender vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and intimacy, drawing the listener into the depth of the message. The gentle melody and instrumentation further enhance the mood of the song, creating a soothing and reflective atmosphere.
"Softly And Tenderly" is not only a testament to God's love and mercy, but it also serves as a reminder for believers to extend the same compassion to others. The song beckons us to be instruments of God's grace, inviting those who are lost and weary to come home and experience His love.
In conclusion, "Softly And Tenderly" by Audrey Assad is a profound and poignant song that speaks to the universal longing for spiritual connection and redemption. The lyrics draw inspiration from biblical verses that emphasize God's invitation for sinners to come to Him and find rest. Through her heartfelt rendition, Audrey Assad beautifully captures the essence of the song, creating a space for reflection and renewal. As we listen to this song, may we be reminded of God's unwavering love and extend that same love and invitation to others.