I was reading an email from a well-known business coach recently, and she was talking about narrowing our focus to dig deeper, rather than wider. (In my former career as a math teacher, we talked about the topics we taught as being a “mile wide and only an inch deep.”) In context, both of those things made since.
But today, as I read the email, the well-known children’s song, “Deep and Wide” popped into my head. As I was humming it, I started to wonder where it had come from and what Bible verse it was based on.
I was amazed at what I found! With a quick Google search, I found Bible verses Ephesians 3:17 – 18 referenced, as the probable meaning behind the song. But, feeling like there might be more, I continued looking and found an article about the author of the song, Sidney Cox which included an image of the original song from the early 20th century.
Jesse Joyner, the author of the article, The Deep and Wide Song, referenced the imagery in Ezekiel 47. However, he also mentioned how the lyrics of the song have been lost, which saddens Sidney Cox’s grandson.
Here are the original lyrics, which I personally never knew! Note: I used the image from this website because it is easy to read. The article by Jesse Joyner includes a copy of the song as it first appeared.
The song clearly references “living water flowing from the Savior’s wounded side”.
John 19:34 states, “Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.”
This verse reminds us of the profound depth and breadth of God’s love. Through its powerful lyrics, the song, “Deep and Wide” serves as a reminder to Christians of the sacrificial love of Christ and the boundless grace available to all who believe.
The song, and the BIble Verses it includes, resonates with the Christian faith, reminding believers of the endless depths of God’s mercy and the expansive reach of His saving grace. What comfort this provides to those who believe.
Perhaps, like me, you aren’t aware of the origins of some of the hymns, or choruses, you have sung for years. Spending a few moments doing a little research is another great way to spend time with God. You can even write about it in your journal. I pray you delight in each and every verse you sing. ❤️