In Return
Whitney Houston
The Transformative Power of Faith in 'In Return' by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston's song 'In Return' is a heartfelt testament to the transformative power of faith and divine love. The lyrics convey a deep sense of gratitude and awe for the unconditional love and joy that the singer receives from a higher power, despite her own perceived inadequacies. The song begins with the acknowledgment of a 'broken heart, torn apart' and 'empty hope and promises' as all she had to offer. This sets the stage for a powerful contrast between human frailty and divine generosity.
The chorus highlights the miraculous exchange that takes place when one offers their brokenness to God. In return for her meager offerings, she receives 'joy that could never be told' and 'love that was more precious than gold.' This metaphorical language emphasizes the immeasurable value of the spiritual gifts she receives, which far surpass any material wealth. The song encourages listeners to come as they are, without shame, and to present their lives to Jesus, who will provide abundantly in return.
The latter part of the song reinforces this message by sharing a personal testimony. The singer reflects on her lack of material wealth and social status, yet rejoices that God did not judge her based on these external factors. Instead, He provided her with everything she needed, including joy, love, and peace. The imagery of calming a 'raging storm' and giving 'life abundantly' serves as a powerful reminder of the peace and fulfillment that faith can bring. 'In Return' is a moving celebration of the boundless grace and generosity of divine love, encouraging listeners to trust in a higher power for their needs and to find solace in their faith.