Starts And Ends
Hillsong United
Finding Rest and Redemption in Faith
Hillsong United's song "Starts And Ends" delves deep into the human experience of struggle, redemption, and the search for peace through faith. The lyrics open with a profound sense of longing and confusion, as the soul thirsts for something inexplicable, and the heart becomes a battleground. This imagery sets the stage for a spiritual journey where the flesh is depicted as a beggar and thief, while a spirit-man within awakens, symbolizing the internal conflict between worldly desires and spiritual awakening.
The song continues to explore the theme of life's challenges and the feeling of unraveling, yet it offers a beacon of hope through the presence of a shepherd, priest, and comforter. This trinity represents Jesus, who provides solace and rest even when it defies logic. The lyrics emphasize the transformative power of grace, where old regrets, brokenness, and failures are redeemed. The cross stands as a powerful symbol of this redemption, turning shame into grace and dead ends into new beginnings.
The repeated refrain of laying burdens down upon Jesus underscores the central message of surrender and trust in divine support. The song culminates in a declaration of Jesus as the source of all good things, from amnesty and reconciliation to the wonder of life itself. This powerful conclusion reinforces the idea that faith provides a foundation for peace, hope, and redemption, making "Starts And Ends" a poignant anthem for those seeking spiritual solace and renewal.