One of the greatest songs ever made during the mid-1990s was the debut smash from Collective Soul called “Shine”. It was their first hit – and their highest-charting hit of their entire (still active) career.

Back when “Shine” shone Collective Soul was frequently considered to be ‘a Christian band’, but they denied any such category. Not all of the band mates considered themselves to be Christians. Despite that the lyrics of “Shine” played out like a passionate plea to God:

Give me a word
Give me a sign
Show me where to look
Tell me what will I find

Lay me on the ground
Fly me in the sky
Show me where to look
Tell me what will I find

Oh, heaven let your light shine down

Love is in the water
Love is in the air
Show me where to go
Tell me will love be there

Teach me how to speak
Teach me how to share
Teach me where to go
Tell me will love be there

Oh, heaven let your light shine down

It’s in the lyrics, and it’s in the 2009 remake by a foursome that proudly exclaim to be a Christian Rock band. Here’s Pillar, and here’s how they “Shine”: