I believe there is a place
Where people live in perfect peace
Where there is food on every plate
Where work is rewarded and rest is sweet
Where the color of your skin
Won't get you in or keep you out
Where justice reigns and truth finally wins
Its hard fought war against fear and doubt
And everyone I know wants to go there too
But when I ask them how to do it they seem so confused
Do I turn to the left?
Do I turn to the right?
When I turn to the world they gave me this advice
They said boy you just follow your heart
But my heart just led me into my chest
They said follow your nose
But the direction changed every time I went and turned my head
And they said boy you just follow your dreams
But my dreams were only misty notions
But the Father of hearts and the Maker of noses
And the Giver of dreams He's the one I have chosen
And I will follow Him
I believe there'll come a time
Lord I pray it's not too far off
There'll be no poverty or crime
There'll be no greed and we will learn how to love
And children will be safe in their homes
And there'll be no violence out on the streets
The old will not be left alone
And the strong will learn how to care for the weak
And everyone I know hopes it comes real soon
But when I ask 'em where I'd find it they seem so confused
Do I find it in the day?
Do I find it in the night?
When I finally ask the world they give me this advice
Well they said boy you just follow your heart
But my heart just led me into my chest
They said follow your nose
But the direction changed every time I went and turned my head
And they said boy you just follow your dreams
But my dreams were only misty notions
But the Father of hearts and the Maker of noses
And the Giver of dreams He's the one I have chosen
And oh I hear the voice of a million dreams
Then I wake in the world that I'm partly made of
And the world that is partly my homemaking
And oh I hear the song of a heart set free
That will not be kept down
By the fury and sound
Of a world that is wasting away but keeps saying (keeps on saying)
Saying boy you just follow your heart
But my heart just led me into my chest
They said follow your nose
The direction changed every time I go and turn my head
They said boy you just follow your dreams
But my dreams were only misty notions
But the Father of hearts and the Maker of noses
And the Giver of dreams He's the one I have chosen
And I will follow Him
(Just follow your dreams)
(You just follow your dreams)
"The Maker Of Noses" by Rich Mullins is a song that carries deep meaning and inspiration. It tells a powerful story while also drawing from scripture to convey its message. The song is featured on Mullins' album "The World As Best As I Remember It, Vol. 2," and it has resonated with listeners for its thought-provoking lyrics and heartfelt melody.
The title itself, "The Maker Of Noses," may seem peculiar at first glance. However, this unique choice of words captures the essence of the song's message. Mullins is highlighting the divine nature of God, portraying Him as the Creator who intricately designed every part of our being, including our noses. It serves as a metaphor for the intricate care and attention that God gives to every aspect of our lives.
The song begins by expressing the desire for a place of perfect peace, where justice and truth prevail over fear and doubt. Mullins taps into the longing that resides in all of us for a world free from suffering and injustice. This longing finds its roots in scripture, particularly in passages such as Isaiah 11:9: "They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea." Mullins' lyrics paint a picture of a world where God's kingdom reigns, where His righteousness and love are fully realized.
As the song progresses, Mullins addresses the confusion that often arises when seeking guidance on how to reach this ideal world. He humorously reflects on the advice he receives, such as "follow your heart," "follow your nose," and "follow your dreams." These worldly notions, though well-intentioned, fall short of providing true direction and purpose. Mullins recognizes that these paths can lead to disappointment and confusion, as they are fleeting and subjective.
Instead, Mullins turns to the Father of hearts, the Maker of noses, and the Giver of dreams as the one he has chosen to follow. This turning point in the song reflects a biblical truth found in Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Mullins encourages his listeners to put their trust in God and to seek His guidance above all else.
The song concludes by acknowledging the tension between the world we long for and the world we live in. Mullins speaks of hearing the voice of a million dreams, but then waking up to the reality of a broken and decaying world. Yet, he remains steadfast in his faith, knowing that God is the one who can bring about true transformation and restoration.
"The Maker Of Noses" is a song that speaks to the deep longing within every human heart for a world characterized by justice, love, and peace. It beautifully weaves together scripture, personal reflections, and heartfelt lyrics to convey a powerful message. Mullins' unique perspective and poetic storytelling make this song a timeless treasure that continues to inspire and challenge listeners to this day.
