Song Meaning
Phil Keaggy's "Things I Will Do" functions as a musical testament to faith and divine guidance, cutting through the noise with a message of hope amidst uncertainty. The song's core revolves around a direct line of communication with a higher power, a plea for direction when life's path seems obscured by a "rocky road." Keaggy doesn't present a saccharine, easy-listening spirituality; rather, he acknowledges the inherent struggles of existence, framing faith as an active dialogue. The repeated supplication, "Lord I can't see Your path before me," speaks to a vulnerable, human desire for clarity, a sentiment many listeners can connect with during times of personal crisis or existential questioning. The song meaning resides in this shared sense of searching. The idea of spiritual seeking, and a dialogue with God, is a central theme. The song resonates by acknowledging uncertainty.
The lyrical core of "Things I Will Do" hinges on the divine response, a promise to "lead the blind by the way they do not know." This isn't a passive assurance, but an active commitment to transform "darkness into light" and "rugged places into plains." The repetition of "These are the things I will do, I will do, I will do / And I will not leave them undone" reinforces the unwavering nature of this divine promise. It's a powerful statement of intent, a spiritual contract that provides solace and strength. The song speaks to the idea of divine intervention, and the possibility of transformation.
Keaggy positions himself as one among "countless thousands" on a "pilgrim's way," emphasizing the universality of the spiritual journey. It's a reminder that doubt, uncertainty, and the need for guidance are shared human experiences. The act of seeking the Lord when he thirsts is both a personal practice and an echo of ancient spiritual traditions. The song emphasizes the idea of communal faith. The inclusion of the lines "Behold I will do something new / Now it will spring forth / And you will not be aware of it / I will even make a roadway in the wilderness / And rivers in the desert" suggests a sense of constant renewal and unexpected blessings, a powerful message for listeners navigating the complexities of modern life. The lyrics analysis reveals the song's meaning as deeply rooted in faith, resilience, and the transformative power of divine guidance, offering a beacon of hope for those traversing their own "rocky road."