"Like A Lake" by Sara Groves is a beautiful and introspective song that explores the theme of vulnerability and surrendering to God's presence. The lyrics depict a sense of hurt, pain, and confusion, but also a desire to navigate through difficult emotions and experiences. The song starts by acknowledging the profound ache and overwhelming information that envelop the narrator's soul. They admit that there is no clear way to handle or process this hurt. Despite feeling their heart tightening and curling around the pain, they decide to lay it wide open, like the surface of a lake. This image suggests a willingness to be vulnerable and exposed, allowing for healing and growth. As they stand at the water's edge, looking into God's heart, the narrator expresses their uncertainty about how to begin understanding and accepting the way things are. They long for the ability to absorb and embrace reality, even though everything within them is pulling inward and closing off. Again, they proclaim their intention to keep their heart wide open, just like a lake, implying a commitment to remaining vulnerable and receptive to God's work in their life. The lyrics continue by requesting various natural elements to bring their strength and cleansing properties. The wind, thunder, and rain symbolize challenges and trials that the narrator is willing to face in order to find stillness and peace. They desire to reflect the vastness and beauty of the sky, embodying the grace and wonder that come from a genuine and unforced peace. The song concludes with a repetition of the struggle to stay open. Despite the difficulties, the narrator continues to fight against the instinct to close off and instead strives to remain open like a lake. This song serves as a reminder of the importance of vulnerability, surrender, and the seeking of peace in the midst of life's turmoil.
