The Maker by Daniel Lanois
Posted on March 26, 2008
Filed Under Song of the Month |
This 2008 Easter Season the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity recognize Daniel Lanois, native of Canada, who is known for his ability to immerse himself in the moment and create tunes that resonate with many people about facing life’s challenges. He is the recipient of ten Grammy awards and five Juno awards. In his own artistic way, he has catapulted the careers of other favored musicians including U2, Bob Dylan, Peter Gabriel,Neville Brothers, Brian Eno, Luscious Jackson, Willie Nelson,Scott 
Weiland and Robbie Robertson.
Lyrics:
I’m not a stranger in the hands of the maker…I have seen the flaming swords there over east of eden burning in the eyes of the maker…oh river rise from your sleep…. Find Daniel Lanois’ latest album and film here: www.redfloorrecords.com Watch The Maker performed: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxAJHyyatUk
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I sense this is a song of deep awareness and a song of pleading from the heart of humanity over the ages, not just a plea for personal salvation. The vocalist, Daniel Lajois, has a very pleasent voice. The melody flows in a simple fluid line which allows the strong message of the lyrics to come through. The simple accompaniment of percussion and guitar assist the vocal line never overpowering it, but rising in intensity when necessary. This song really captures the interest of the listener both in the power of the lyrics and in the quality of the music. The lyrics reflect back on strong and powerful moments in biblical history:
-creation and the fall, “I’ve run a twisted line.”
-John the Baptist calling us to repentance,
-Abraham’s strong example of faith in God.
As we grow older, ”My body is bent and broken,” and try to be faithful we can’t ignore the cry for help from others and we become no longer a stranger to God, the maker.
The flaming swords of judgment are still there keeping us out of eternal Paradise. The song is calling to God for the saving Baptism of humanity, “Oh, river rise . . .” and is calling to God for the Easter Resurrection, “. . . from your sleep.”
Drums are rolling. Visualize the expectant eyes of one soon to be baptized in a dynamic Catholic parish on the Easter Vigil. This is what these lyrics speak to me. Yes, the faith lives on in this new member of our faith community. And it lives on in me, as I join in welcoming another called to be fully alive for Christ.
Oh, Oh Deep water
Black, and cold like the night
I’ve stand with my arms wide open
I’ve run a twisted line
I’m a stranger
in the eyes of the maker
I could not see
for the fog in my eyes
I could not feel
for the fear in my life
From across the great divide
In the distance i saw a light
Jean baptiste
walking to me with the maker…
Praise God He is risen! Alleluia! New life promises for sure
YES, Jody! Christ is risen and He is WITH US! Thanks for sharing your own faith with all of us.
I really enjoyed this song. I like its calm feeling.
Kate, peace and all good to you. May you find our risen Lord in each moment of your day. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
His lyrics come from the heart and are very true.
You couldn’t be more right, Ann. Lyrics are key to this song’s memorable masterful qualities. Thanks for joining this conversation.
Great musician and great song, which has been covered (at least) by Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson and Dave Matthews.
To me the song’s most touching words have to be:
I could not see
for the fog in my eyes
I could not feel
for the fear in my life
Every time I hear the song it’s like they are speaking to me.
By the way, make sure you check Julie Miller’s work. I’m sure you will find some inspiring songs.
I think this is beautiful song that pours out the soul of all humanity. Jesus spoke for the whole of humanity when he cried “My God, why have you foresaken me?” Everyone at times has felt abandoned by God, a stranger in the eyes of the maker. But how could a parent forget his little child? Evenmore so, does our Father in Heaven love us.
Kelsey
Francisco, thanks for highlighting those meaningful lyrics for all of us. (I look forward to checking out JULIE Miller’s music.)
Kelsey, thanks always for sharing your own spiritual reflection.
Greetings from Whitewater! This is a very calming song and makes you forget about all of the stressful events of the day. Peace and Joy to all!
Calming…let’s hope your week is progressing with a bit more light-hearted schedule than the last time we saw you. Peace and all good, Megan.