Growing up under apartheid in South Africa , Butler was often exploited and forbidden from staying in the venues where he performed. His music, including this song, became a vehicle for resilience and a "plea" for personal and land-wide healing .
The 2002 recording at West Angeles Cathedral was significant for several reasons: Kirk Whalum - Apple Music Growing up under apartheid in South Africa ,
While the song has become a global worship staple, its roots are deeply personal to Jonathan Butler: including this song