Homecoming by Sandra McCracken

For her latest release, a six-song EP called Homecoming, Sandra McCracken prepared by going to Oxford, England, for four months to reflect on the subject of heaven and to have conversations with theologian and Anglican bishop N.T. Wright as he was finishing work on his book, God’s Homecoming.

The resulting album is noteworthy in the subject and depth of the lyrics and as a musical accomplishment. McCracken’s unique voice delivers words that are thoughtful and challenging while the production and recording of this EP rivals anything in her large catalog. The instrumentation is lush without overwhelming the message, and the playing is artful without being showy.

But it is the lyrics that really stand out here. The first song and title track opens with Christ greeting Mary in the garden at the resurrection. It carries the idea of Jesus’ homecoming to look forward to “how beautiful it shall ever be, we wait with patience for your homecoming.” Each track shows a depth of thought and of care. In “How Long Till Heaven Comes Down,” she sings, “How long ‘til it feels on Earth as it is in heaven.” Despite its short length, Homecoming is a career high point for McCracken. (Steadfast Music)