Ep. 52 - #1013, God's Gracious Love

What is the greatest miracle Jesus Christ has ever performed?In this season finale of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi are joined by composer Shawna Edwards to discuss her beloved hymn "The Miracle" (Hymn 1070 in Hymns—For Home and Church).Shawna shares the story of how she wrote the song for her Primary, how it grew into a beloved favorite, and how a surprising conversation inspired the third verse now included in the new hymnbook. Together, Steve, Angi, and Shawna talk about the miracles Jesus performed during His mortal ministry—and the greater miracle of His Atonement that continues to bless us every day.They also share personal experiences of miracles, discuss the Savior's ability to calm our troubled hearts, and reflect on how small offerings can become something much greater in the Lord's hands.Shawna Edwards' musical journeyThe story behind The MiracleHow the third verse came to beThe Savior's miracles in scriptureThe Atonement as the greatest miraclePersonal experiences with miraclesTrusting God with the gifts we have to offer📧 [email protected]🌐 KnowingHymn.weebly.comThank you for joining us for this season of Knowing Hymn! We've loved sharing these hymns, stories, and conversations with you. We hope you'll continue singing—and that you'll join us when we're back for another season.Until then, keep singing your way to Knowing Hymn!

How do we respond to God's grace?In this episode, Steve and Angi explore "God's Gracious Love" (Hymn 1013 in Hymns—For Home and Church). Together, they discuss the hymn's inspiring origins, its rich scriptural foundation, and the beautiful relationship between God's grace, our faith, and our discipleship.The story behind God's Gracious LoveThe hymn's author and composerWhat the scriptures teach about God's graceGrace, faith, and the Atonement of Jesus ChristHow gratitude changes the way we livePersonal insights from Steve and Angi📧 [email protected]🌐 KnowingHymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! How have you experienced God's gracious love in your own life?Thank you for joining us as we continue discovering the stories, doctrine, and testimony found in the hymns. Join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn.

Knowing Hymn – Episode 51Love Will Bless Our Home (Hymn 1061)How can a simple hymn teach us to build stronger homes?In this episode, Steve and Angi explore "Love Will Bless Our Home" (Hymn 1061 in Hymns—For Home and Church). Together, they discuss the hymn's unique history, its message of Christlike love within the family, and why this beloved text has found a new home in the Church's updated hymnbook.Along the way, they examine scriptures about charity, talk about practical ways to invite the Savior into our homes, and reflect on how love, forgiveness, and service create lasting peace in family life.The story behind Love Will Bless Our HomeThe hymn's author and composerWhy this hymn was included in the new hymnbookScriptures on charity and Christlike loveBuilding stronger homes through the SaviorPersonal experiences from Steve and Angi🎙️ Steve's interview with Ryan Murphy on the Moveable Do podcast:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3UsqhHZVlliWWHle5Xl6y6?si=d24e57372de747f7📧 [email protected]🌐 KnowingHymn.weebly.comIf this episode encouraged you, we'd love to hear from you! What does "love will bless our home" mean to you?Join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn.

Knowing Hymn – Episode 50"Welcome Home"What does it mean to truly feel welcome home?In this episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi explore the touching new hymn "Welcome Home" from Hymns—For Home and Church. Together, they discuss how the hymn beautifully portrays three sacred invitations: gathering with fellow Saints at church, entering the peace of the temple, and ultimately returning to the loving presence of our Heavenly Father.Throughout the episode, Steve and Angi reflect on the Savior's open invitation to all of God's children, the importance of creating welcoming congregations, and the peace that comes through temple worship. They also share personal experiences—including Angi's service as a temple worker—and testify that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, every one of us can one day hear the words, "Welcome home."The story and message behind the hymn "Welcome Home"Three meanings of "home" found throughout the hymnCreating welcoming church congregationsFinding peace and healing through temple worshipAngi's experiences serving as a temple workerThe Savior's invitation to return to HimThe symbolism of Christ's outstretched armsHow the Atonement makes it possible for us to return to our Heavenly FatherWhy every disciple can help others feel welcome in the Church"Welcome Home" (Hymns—For Home and Church)Isaiah (the repeated invitation that "His hand is stretched out still")2 Nephi 1:15 ("encircled about eternally in the arms of his love")Additional references to the Savior's invitation to come unto HimClark G. Gilbert (April 2026 General Conference): "To those who are struggling to come home, know that it is your Savior who is calling you back."John H. Groberg on the temple being "the real world" because it represents eternal realities rather than temporary earthly concerns.Coming unto Jesus ChristFeeling welcome in the ChurchTemple worshipEternal familiesThe AtonementGod's mercyReturning to our Heavenly FatherChristian fellowshipMinistering with kindness and love"Welcome Home" presents a beautiful progression through three sacred places of belonging. The first verse celebrates the welcoming spirit of the Church as disciples gather to worship together. The second verse turns our attention to the temple, where covenants bring peace, healing, and a deeper connection with God. The final verse looks beyond mortality to the joyful day when the Savior, with arms outstretched, welcomes His faithful children back into His presence—a reminder that through Jesus Christ, our eternal home is always within reach.📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! When have you felt truly "welcome home"—whether in your ward, in the temple, or through the Savior's love? We'd love to hear your experiences.Thank you for joining us as we continue discovering the stories, doctrine, and testimony found in the hymns. We hope you'll join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn.

What does it mean to declare, "This is the Christ"?In this episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi explore the powerful testimony hymn "This Is the Christ" (Hymn 1017 in Hymns—For Home and Church), with text by James E. Faust and Jan Underwood Pinborough and music by Michael F. Moody. Originally composed as a choral anthem, this beloved work has inspired worshippers for decades before finding its place in the Church's new hymnbook.Together, Steve and Angi discuss Michael Moody's life and lifelong dedication to sacred music, the scriptural foundation of the hymn, and the many titles of Jesus Christ found throughout its text. They also examine the hymn's testimony of the Savior's Atonement, Resurrection, and divine mission, while reflecting on what it means to accept His invitation to change and follow Him.A special highlight of this episode is Steve's musical analysis of the hymn, exploring how Moody's masterful composition reinforces the text and deepens its testimony of Jesus Christ.Michael F. Moody's life and contributions to Church musicHow "This Is the Christ" evolved from a choral anthem into a congregational hymnThe scriptural events portrayed in the hymnThe significance of Christ's many titles: Savior, Redeemer, Lord, and HealerUnderstanding the Atonement through the phrase "Many drops of blood were spilled for me"What it means to accept the Atonement of Jesus ChristWhy Christ invites us to change rather than compels usA musical analysis of the hymn's melody, harmony, and structureBearing our own testimony that Jesus is the Christ"This Is the Christ" (Hymn 1017)Words by James E. Faust and Jan Underwood Pinborough and music by Michael F. Moody3 Nephi 11:8–17 (The Savior appears to the Nephites)1 Kings 19:11-13 (Elijah's experience feeling the still, small voice)Doctrine and Covenants 76:22–24 (Joseph Smith's testimony that Christ lives)President Boyd K. Packer about feeling the influence of the Spirit. The divinity of Jesus ChristPersonal testimonyThe AtonementThe ResurrectionRedemption through Jesus ChristRepentance and changeGrace and discipleshipSacred music as testimonyWorship through congregational singingMichael F. Moody has devoted his life to creating sacred music that strengthens faith in Jesus Christ. A longtime leader in Church music, he served as chairman of the General Church Music Committee and later helped oversee the development and worldwide translation of the Church's 1985 hymnbook. His many beloved compositions—including "He Sent His Son," "A Child's Prayer," and "This Is the Christ"—have blessed generations of Latter-day Saints and continue to inspire worship throughout the world.📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: knowinghymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! What experiences have strengthened your testimony that Jesus Christ lives? How has this hymn helped you come to know Him more personally?Thank you for joining us as we continue to discover the stories, doctrine, and testimonies found in the hymns. We hope you'll join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn.

Knowing Hymn – Episode 48“I Know That My Savior Loves Me”In this episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi explore the beloved Primary hymn "I Know That My Savior Loves Me" (Hymn 1014 in Hymns—For Home and Church), with music by Tami J. Creamer and lyrics by Derena A. Bell.Inspired by the Savior's visit to the Nephite children in 3 Nephi 17, this hymn beautifully connects that sacred event to our own lives today. Steve and Angi discuss the hymn's origins, the scriptural account that inspired it, and the comforting truth that although we cannot physically see the Savior, we can still feel His love through the Holy Ghost, our families, teachers, and everyday experiences.Throughout the episode, they share personal stories of feeling the Savior's love during difficult moments, reflect on the influence of faithful parents and teachers, and bear testimony that Jesus Christ lives and knows each of us personally.The story behind "I Know That My Savior Loves Me"Tami Creamer's inspiration from 3 Nephi 17How the hymn became a Church music competition winnerIts journey into the Primary songbook and Hymns—For Home and ChurchWhy 3 Nephi 17 is one of the most tender chapters in scriptureFeeling the Savior's love through family, leaders, and teachersPersonal experiences of being strengthened by Jesus ChristThe power of bearing testimony through music"I Know That My Savior Loves Me" (Hymn 1014)Music by Tami J. CreamerLyrics by Derena A. Bell3 Nephi 17:11–24John 21:15–17 (referenced in discussion of Christ's love for His children)Jesus Christ's love for childrenThe ministry of Christ among the NephitesTestimony through musicFeeling the Savior's loveParents and teachers as spiritual guidesHoly places in everyday lifeFaith, discipleship, and following Jesus ChristThe influence of righteous examplesTami Creamer composed the music after being inspired by the Savior's visit to the children in 3 Nephi 17. She later invited lyricist Derena Bell to help shape the text so that it would connect Christ's ministry among the Nephites with the experiences of children today. After winning first place in a Church music competition in 2001, the hymn was published in The Friend magazine in 2002, became a beloved Primary song, served as the 2015 Primary theme song, and is now included in Hymns—For Home and Church.Email: [email protected]: knowinghymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! When have you felt wrapped in the Savior's love? We'd love to hear your experiences and what this hymn means to you.Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.

During our interview with Angie Killian, she mentioned this piece, My Own Sacred Grove. Steve shares a recording of this piece (with permission), and then a flute-piano duet arrangement of the same song. Sheet music for My Own Sacred Grove: https://www.angiekillian.com/my-own-sacred-groveSheet music for Steve's flute/piano duet: https://sdcompose.weebly.com/store/p61/My-Own-Sacred-Grove.html#/

Knowing Hymn – Episode 47“Anytime, Anywhere” with Special Guest Angie KillianIn this special episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi welcome songwriter and hymnwriter Angie Killian to discuss her beloved hymn “Anytime, Anywhere” (Hymn 1012 in Hymns—For Home and Church).Angie shares the story behind the hymn's creation, explaining how it began as a simple song for children and eventually found its way into the Church's new hymnbook. Together, they explore the hymn's central message that prayer and divine guidance are available to all of God's children, no matter where they are or what circumstances they face.Throughout the conversation, Angie reflects on her journey as a songwriter, her desire to help children develop a relationship with Heavenly Father, and the inspiration she finds in the Savior's teachings. Steve and Angi also discuss scriptural teachings on prayer, the influence of the Holy Ghost, and the importance of finding sacred moments amid the noise and distractions of everyday life.Angie Killian's journey into songwritingThe story behind “Anytime, Anywhere”How the hymn grew from a children's song into a congregational favoriteTeaching children to pray and seek spiritual guidanceThe Savior's teachings on personal prayerFinding sacred spaces in a noisy worldThe role of the Holy Ghost in guiding our livesThe power of simple, childlike faithHearing hymns sung around the worldA memorable story involving children, music, and an unexpected audience of cows“Anytime, Anywhere” (Hymn 1012)Words and music by Angie KillianMatthew 6:5–63 Nephi 18:15–21Doctrine and Covenants 88:631 Thessalonians 5:17James 1:5Steve references the 1835 hymnbook compiled under the direction of Emma Smith.1835 Collection of Sacred Hymns:https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/collection-of-sacred-hymns-1835/7PrayerPersonal revelationThe Holy GhostTeaching faith to childrenFinding peace amid life's distractionsWorship in daily lifeTrust in Heavenly FatherThe simplicity of the gospelJesus Christ as our example in prayerAngie Killian is a Christian songwriter, author, and speaker whose music has touched millions of listeners around the world. Her songs focus on faith in Jesus Christ and are sung in homes, churches, and congregations across the globe. “Anytime, Anywhere” was recently added to Hymns—For Home and Church as hymn number 1012.Email: [email protected]: knowinghymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! What experiences have helped you learn that you can pray anytime and anywhere? Share your thoughts with us by email or through our website.Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.

Knowing Hymn – Episode 46“My Covenants”In this episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi explore “My Covenants” (Hymn 1023 in Hymns—For Home and Church), with words and music by Hanna Josephine Saffer.Originally written for children, this simple yet profound hymn teaches one of the central principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ: the importance of making and keeping covenants with God. Steve and Angi discuss how covenants connect us to Jesus Christ, strengthen us through the power of the Holy Ghost, and provide guidance throughout our lives.Together, they explore the promises we make at baptism, the blessings of covenant living, and how temple covenants build upon the covenant path. Through scripture, personal experiences, and doctrinal discussion, they reflect on how keeping our covenants helps us draw closer to the Savior and become more like Him.The story behind “My Covenants”Hanna Josephine Saffer's inspiration for writing the hymnWhy covenants are central to God's planThe covenant path and daily discipleshipBaptismal covenants and their promisesThe role of the Holy Ghost in covenant keepingHow covenants strengthen us during life's challengesTemple covenants and the blessings they bringBecoming heirs to the promises made to AbrahamTeaching children the importance of covenants“My Covenants” (Hymn 1023)Words and music by Hanna Josephine SafferMosiah 18:8–10Doctrine and Covenants 82:10Galatians 3:27–29Abraham 2:9–11John 14:26–27Doctrine and Covenants 84:20–21Covenants and discipleshipFollowing Jesus ChristThe covenant pathBaptism and confirmationThe companionship of the Holy GhostTemple worshipThe Abrahamic covenantSpiritual growth through obedienceGod's promises to His childrenDaily covenant livingHanna Josephine Saffer wrote "My Covenants" to help children understand the importance of covenant keeping in a simple, memorable way. The hymn teaches that following Jesus Christ, obeying His commandments, and relying on the Holy Ghost are all part of living faithfully on the covenant path. Though written with children in mind, its message speaks to disciples of all ages.Email: [email protected]: knowinghymn.weebly.comWe'd love to hear from you! What blessings have come into your life through making and keeping covenants with God? Share your thoughts with us by email or through our website.Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.

In this episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve and Angi explore one of the most beloved additions to Hymns—For Home and Church: “Faith in Every Footstep” by K. Newell Dayley.Often associated with the 1997 Pioneer Sesquicentennial celebration, this hymn is much more than a pioneer anthem. Steve and Angi discuss the hymn's origins, its connections to Doctrine and Covenants 4, and the powerful message that discipleship requires faith, commitment, and trust in Jesus Christ—one step at a time.Through scripture, personal stories, and reflections on pioneer heritage, they explore what it means to embark in the service of God, travel the covenant path, and exercise faith even when the road ahead is unclear.This episode also includes a special surprise as Steve sings a verse of the hymn in Czech before they perform the hymn together.The story behind “Faith in Every Footstep”K. Newell Dayley's inspiration for writing the hymnConnections between the hymn and Doctrine and Covenants 4What it means to "embark in the service of God"The Restoration as the "marvelous work and a wonder"Pioneer faith and modern discipleshipPersonal experiences of following promptings and moving forward in faithTeaching faith to the next generationA special Czech-language performance segmentSinging the hymn together“Faith in Every Footstep”Words and music by K. Newell DayleyDoctrine and Covenants 4Isaiah 29:141 Nephi 3:7Proverbs 3:5–6Account of Hannah in 1 SamuelKing Benjamin's people and the rising generation in MosiahFaith in Jesus ChristThe covenant pathThe Restoration of the gospelPioneer heritageMissionary work and discipleshipConsecration and serviceTrusting God through uncertaintyThe importance of daily spiritual habitsPassing faith to future generationsEmail: [email protected]: knowinghymn.weebly.comIf you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, your favorite pioneer stories, or an experience when you had to move forward with faith before knowing what the future would hold.Thanks for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to knowing Him.In This EpisodeHymn DiscussedScriptures ReferencedThemes DiscussedMemorable ThoughtConnect With Us