I am not a hymn person, but the hymn “Here I am, Lord” has always been a favorite. The verses are God’s words to us and the chorus is our response. The song reminds me of my call and the position I want my heart to stay in.

We sang the song recently at church and I was transported back in time. I was reminded of what this song has meant to me. I was also instantly aware that I had drifted. The second verse says, “Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?” The chorus as a response says, “Here I am, Lord. It is I, Lord…I will hold your people in my heart.”

I realized my enthusiasm for sharing God’s light, for using what God has given me to expand His Kingdom, had faded. Then I had the opportunity to present at a Prison Fellowship Academy gathering inside a local correctional facility. The hope was electric. Evidence of transformation was everywhere. My enthusiasm started growing.

⁸ But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do,
    what God is looking for in men and women.
It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,
    be compassionate and loyal in your love,
And don’t take yourself too seriously—
    take God seriously. (Micah 6:8 MSG).

Sometimes I need inspirational moments to remind me that God is at work changing lives. God is at work bringing redemption, grace and mercy. The reminder from the song and the time at the correctional facility put a spring in my step for holding God’s people in my heart. Here I am, Lord. It is I Lord. I will hold your people in my heart.

Have you answered the call? Have you said, “Here I am, Lord?” How do you keep yourself from drifting off course? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.