Peace Like a River

Page CXVI's song 'Peace Like a River' is a serene and spiritually uplifting piece that delves into the profound sense of peace, love, and joy that faith can bring to one's soul. The repetitive and meditative lyrics emphasize the depth and constancy of these emotions, likening them to natural elements such as a river, an ocean, and a fountain. These metaphors are powerful in their simplicity, evoking images of endless, flowing, and abundant sources of tranquility and love.

The song's structure is built around the repetition of key phrases, which serves to reinforce the message and create a soothing, almost hypnotic effect. The river, ocean, and fountain are not just random natural elements but are chosen for their symbolic meanings in many spiritual and religious contexts. Rivers often symbolize life and renewal, oceans represent vastness and depth, and fountains are sources of life and purity. By associating peace, love, and joy with these elements, the song suggests that these feelings are not fleeting but are deeply rooted and ever-present in the soul of a believer.

The invitation to 'come to the river' and 'come to the waters' is a call to embrace faith and the divine love that flows from it. The lyrics suggest that this divine love is nurturing and life-giving, capable of making one's heart and soul grow rather than wither. This growth is a central theme, indicating that faith and divine love are not static but dynamic forces that continually enrich and expand the believer's inner life. The song's gentle melody and harmonious arrangement further enhance its calming and reassuring message, making it a comforting anthem for those seeking spiritual solace and strength.