The song "How Deep Is That River" by Mason Jennings explores themes of faith, trust, love, and self-discovery. The lyrics contain religious references, suggesting a conversation between the narrator and God. The narrator questions the depth of the river as a metaphor for understanding the mysteries and depths of life. They express a desire to have faith and trust without needing to know all the answers about where the river comes from or where it's going. The song emphasizes the importance of placing trust in God and seeking guidance from Him. The lyrics also mention Jesus and his teachings, emphasizing the importance of loving God and others. The narrator reflects on the goodness of humanity and the unity among people, emphasizing the idea of being connected and treating others with kindness and compassion. Towards the end of the song, the narrator shares a personal experience of feeling lost but finding solace in prayer and encountering a river. Drinking from the river is symbolic of finding spiritual nourishment and finding one's way back to faith and inner peace. The overall message of the song is about embracing the uncertainty of life, trusting in God, and seeking spiritual depth and fulfillment. It encourages listeners to focus on the deeper meaning of existence rather than getting caught up in trivial details or divisions.
