The Church Vessel ‘Rekindle’

Written by: Laura Chambers (3/1/2017)

The world attempts to extinguish our flame for the Lord in many ways. The grueling ordeal of persecution in its various forms, the sharp blade of criticism, the slow erosion of doubt. Yet there is always a tiny spark remaining that awaits only a handful of dried grasses or twigs to fuel its ignition. As the flame increases in magnitude, we become bolder and our faith lights those around us ablaze. The Church Vessel longs to see this flame Rekindle, that we might reach towards God with a new urgency. Many of the songs end with others joining the lead vocalist in agreement near the end, as though they draw the courage to proclaim the message from them.

“Traded” introduces us to the exchange Christ made; His life for ours. Commencing softly and tentatively, it gains strength as it progresses, moving from wonder to gratitude. Jesus paid a price it was impossible to cover. “Rekindle” pictures our passion for God as a fire allowed to burn low. Only a fresh infusion of oxygen from Him can bring life to our hearts and burn away our imperfections. “Oh Father” questions whether we can ever meet up to God’s standards. Rather than trying to reach the height of perfection by our own actions, all we have to do is give what we have, listen to His words, and walk with Him. “Draw Near” describes being attracted by God’s presence, moved to give Him everything we carry in surrender. The song invites God to come closer and speak to us, because His presence releases us and gives us clarity.

“Beckon” sweetly captures a desire to be spirited away to the sacred places of God. For all that He gives us of Himself, there’s always a hunger for more. Something about His love inexorably summons us towards Him. “The Difference” speaks of wanting to be near to God, as His love and guidance is a catalyst for good in every scenario. He gives us courage to continue. A song made for clapping along with in agreement. “Spoken” declares God to be our hope for redemption, worthy of all the praise we could muster. May we follow after Him alone. Everything He says makes us cling to His promises and pray for an outpouring of His spirit. “Your Love” ends as it began, admiring the ability God’s love has to revivify the dead, and stir fire from cold ashes.

Sometimes, all it takes to coax fire from the embers is “a word spoken at the right time”. While Rekindle isn’t the most unique album I’ve ever heard, lyrically or musically, it does manage to tease threads of longing from me. And that alone makes it worth considering.

3.2/5