Sandra McCracken - Sun of My Soul (Shine) Lyrics
Lyrics
Verse 1
Sun of my soul, open my eyes
As morning fills the skies
You are the light guiding 'my 'ways
Through the shadows
Chorus
Shine, 'shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun 'of my soul
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Verse 2
Sun of my soul, steady my gaze
As daylight runs its race
Your Word is a lamp unto my feet
On this journey
Chorus
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Bridge
You're shining down on me
In the night, brighten my darkness
You're shining down on me
In the night, lighten my darkness
Verse 3
Sun of my soul, rest for my heart
As nightfall calls the stars
You are my light, promise of peace
While I'm sleeping
Chorus
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Oh, shine, shine
Shine, shine
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Lighten the darkness oh sun of my soul
Video
"Sun of My Soul (Shine)" by Kristyn Getty & Sandra McCracken
Meaning & Inspiration
"Sun of My Soul (Shine)," a beautiful collaboration between Kristyn Getty and Sandra McCracken, released on May 7, 2021, is a profound anthem of faith that draws deeply from Scripture to illuminate the constancy of God's presence. The song is not merely a musical piece but a lyrical journey through the enduring light of Christ, irrespective of the time of day or the challenges faced. From its opening lines, "Sun of my soul, open my eyes," the song immediately establishes its core theme: the need for divine illumination to perceive the world and one's path within it. This echoes the prayerful plea found in Psalm 119:18, "Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law," highlighting the transformative power of God's truth. The recurring metaphor of the "Sun of my soul" is particularly potent, representing Jesus, who is Himself the "light of the world" (John 8:12). This light is presented as a steadfast guide, dispelling the "shadows" and offering clarity, a sentiment powerfully mirrored in Psalm 27:1, "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?"
The chorus, with its insistent call to "Shine, shine," and its direct plea to "Lighten the darkness," serves as a powerful declaration of dependence on divine radiance. This imperative to shine is not a self-generated ability but a reflection of the light received from God. The lyrics speak to the universal human experience of navigating darkness, both literal and spiritual, and finding solace in the promise that God's light is capable of piercing through it. The second verse deepens this understanding by invoking the image of daylight and connecting it to God's Word: "Your Word is a lamp unto my feet." This is a direct allusion to Psalm 119:105, a verse that has resonated with believers for centuries, affirming the practical and guiding nature of God's commands in the journey of life. The "journey" mentioned is the often-unpredictable path of faith, where steady gaze and divine guidance are essential.
The bridge offers a more intimate reflection, directly addressing the believer as the recipient of this continuous divine shine, even "in the night." This is a crucial element of the song's theological depth, reminding listeners that God's light is not limited to moments of joy or clarity but is equally present and powerful in times of deepest despair and confusion. This concept resonates with the promise of God's presence in adversity, as seen in Isaiah 43:2: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you; when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; neither will the flames burn you." The final verse brings a sense of peace and rest, describing God as "rest for my heart" and the "promise of peace" even as nightfall arrives and sleep beckons. This speaks to the ultimate peace found in Christ, who offers a refuge from the anxieties of life. The assurance of His light, even while sleeping, underscores the unfailing nature of His love and protection, as articulated in Proverbs 3:24: "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Overall, "Sun of My Soul (Shine)" is a profound theological meditation set to music, offering a powerful reminder of the ever-present, illuminating, and peace-giving light of God in every season of life, drawing strength and clarity from the rich tapestry of biblical truth.