The song "Awakening" by Sara Groves is about a personal spiritual journey and the realization of a deeper connection with faith. The lyrics convey a desire for a more genuine and authentic experience with God, rather than just adhering to traditional forms and rituals. The opening lines, "Dress down your pretty faith, give me something real, Leave out the Thee and Thou and speak to me now," suggest a longing for a more intimate and personal connection with God, rather than relying on traditional religious language or rituals. As the song progresses, the lyrics express the need for God to speak to the pain, confusion, fears, and pride within the individual. The song emphasizes that despite imperfections, the speaker believes they are holding their own in a world full of hurt and anger. They acknowledge that there is more to life and express a desire for a deeper understanding and fulfillment. The middle verses explore the speaker's self-awareness of their own brokenness and the recognition that the physical body and mind alone are not enough for a complete sense of wholeness. The awakening mentioned refers to a realization of something deeper within themselves, akin to a forgotten dream resurfacing. This awakening is both intimidating and something the speaker does not want to end. In the chorus, the speaker reflects on a new understanding of Jesus and the aspects of faith that truly matter. They realize that Jesus is not represented solely by portraits, stained glass windows, hymns, or religious traditions. Instead, the lyrics emphasize the importance of believing in one's own flaws and the need for God's grace, rather than striving for martyrdom. The closing lines of the song convey the revelation that Jesus is not just a symbol or metaphor for love, but a reality. The mention of "the blood" refers to the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, highlighting the significance of his death and resurrection in the speaker's faith. Overall, "Awakening" is a song that explores the journey of seeking a deeper and more personal connection with God, moving away from external appearances and religious traditions towards a genuine and transformative faith experience.
