The Orphan
Newsboys · Devotion [2004]
maybe I push when I'm meant to be still
maybe I take it all to personal
Jesus, how to reconcile
the joyful noise
the ancient land
the tug from some invisible hand
the dying mother weaving bulrushes
along the Nile
Chorus
float her basket over the sea
here on a barren shore
we'll be waiting for
a tailwind to carry her (an) orphan's cry
don't you worry, child
I wrote a lullaby
I try to settle, but I just pass through
a rain dog, gypsy
a wandering Jew
all those homes were not ours
then I slept one night
in Abraham's field
and dreamt there was no moon
the night he died
counting stars
Selah
- Chorus -
Bridge
building you a home
building you a home
building you a home
we're building you a home
Selah
- Chorus -
float her basket over the sea
here on a barren shore
we'll be waiting for
a tailwind to bring us your sweet cry
don't you worry, child
I'm gonna sing you a lullaby
maybe I take it all to personal
Jesus, how to reconcile
the joyful noise
the ancient land
the tug from some invisible hand
the dying mother weaving bulrushes
along the Nile
Chorus
float her basket over the sea
here on a barren shore
we'll be waiting for
a tailwind to carry her (an) orphan's cry
don't you worry, child
I wrote a lullaby
I try to settle, but I just pass through
a rain dog, gypsy
a wandering Jew
all those homes were not ours
then I slept one night
in Abraham's field
and dreamt there was no moon
the night he died
counting stars
Selah
- Chorus -
Bridge
building you a home
building you a home
building you a home
we're building you a home
Selah
- Chorus -
float her basket over the sea
here on a barren shore
we'll be waiting for
a tailwind to bring us your sweet cry
don't you worry, child
I'm gonna sing you a lullaby
The Orphan - Newsboys
Released on the 2004 album Devotion, "The Orphan" stands as a defining track in the Newsboys' catalog, blending their signature acoustic rock sound with deep spiritual themes. The song reflects the band's mature period, where they moved beyond their early pop-punk roots to explore more introspective and faith-based material. With its emotive melody and straightforward songwriting, the recording captures the essence of mid-2000s Christian rock, offering a reflective listening experience that resonates with the group's core message of hope and redemption. It remains a staple in their discography, showcasing their ability to craft anthems that serve both as musical statements and spiritual affirmations.

