Time with God – Nic Shaw

As the worship coordinator at Edengrove Presbyterian Church in Ballynahinch, one of my monthly responsibilities is curating the set lists for our services. It’s a task I cherish—not just for the music itself, but for the opportunity to guide our congregation into meaningful encounters with God.

Recently, I included a song by one of my favourite artists, David Crowder, titled “Come As You Are.” It’s a powerful reminder of the grace that welcomes us back, no matter how far we’ve wandered. The lyrics speak directly to the heart:

“Come out of sadness, from wherever you've been
Come broken-hearted, let rescue begin
Come find your mercy, oh sinner come kneel
Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal.”

This song resonates deeply with me. It reminds me of the parable of the prodigal son—and of my own prodigal heart. Life’s daily demands, desires, and distractions often drown out what truly matters. I find myself chasing after things that pull me away from the very relationship I long to nurture: my relationship with God.

Nearly 300 years ago, Robert Robinson penned the hymn “Come Thou Fount” in 1758. In it, he wrote:

“Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.”

Two very different artists, centuries apart, yet echoing the same truth: we are prone to wander, but God continually calls us back.

Years ago, I had the privilege of seeing Rembrandt’s “Return of the Prodigal Son” in person. The painting is rich with symbolism, especially in the depiction of the father. Look closely, and you’ll notice something remarkable: the father’s hands are different—one appears strong and masculine, the other gentle and feminine. His face, too, seems to shift depending on your perspective. With the beard, he looks masculine; without it, almost maternal. Rembrandt masterfully conveys the fullness of God’s character—both strong and tender, just and merciful.

In returning to our Heavenly Father, we acknowledge our need for Him. And through music, art, and worship, we express that longing for repentance and relationship. These creative expressions help us—and those we serve—remember who we are and whose we are.

Whether in worship or in our roles within the Boys’ Brigade, may our prayer and passion be that every young person would come as they are and find themselves in right relationship with God the Father.

So let us keep singing. Keep walking. Keep returning.

And if you haven’t already—check out David Crowder.

Written by Nic Shaw (Down Battalion Chaplain)