“Jesus Be the Centre,” written by Michael Frye and famously associated with Daniel Richter and Vineyard Music, is a profound anthem of spiritual realignment and devotion. The song serves as a rhythmic prayer, calling for Christ to take the foundational position in every aspect of the believer’s life—from the deepest parts of the heart to the outward expressions of the lips. Its minimalist yet powerful structure emphasizes the idea that everything else in life is secondary to this divine focus, creating an atmosphere of surrender and peace that has made it a staple in contemporary worship.
The second half of the song expands this focus from the individual to the communal and cosmic, asking for Jesus to be the center of the Church and the ultimate vision for the world. By repeating the central plea, the lyrics reinforce the concept that Jesus is the “fire in my heart” and the “wind in my sails,” symbolizing both the passion that drives a person and the spiritual force that guides their direction. The song concludes as it began, creating a circular, meditative effect that reminds the listener that every journey begins and ends with faith.
Lyrics of “Jesus Be The Centre” by Daniel Richter
Verse 1
Jesus, be the centre
Be my source, be my light
Jesus
Verse 2
Jesus, be the centre
Be my hope, be my song
Jesus
Chorus
Be the fire in my heart
Be the wind in these sails
Be the reason that I live
Jesus, Jesus
Verse 3
Jesus, be the centre
Be my source, be my light
Jesus
Verse 4
Jesus, be the centre
Of Your church
Jesus, be the centre
Of every heart
Chorus
Be the fire in my heart
Be the wind in these sails
Be the reason that I live
Jesus, Jesus
Outro
Jesus, be the centre
Be my source, be my light
Jesus
Jesus
Jesus

