Bringing in the Sheaves 

Written in 1874 by Knowles Shaw, "Bringing in the Sheaves" stands as a lasting piece of Christian history and a testament to having faith in God. Known as the “Singing Evangelist”, Knowles was a man of faith throughout his entire life, and he used his distinct talent for singing to draw in and convert over a thousand people during his time as a church leader. 

Knowles Shaw was born in 1874 in Butler County, Ohio, but his family relocated to Rushville, Indiana, when he was a child. Losing his father at an early age, Shaw felt an urge to understand the God he had learned about more fully. When he was young, Knowles would use his musical inclinations to learn the violin. One day, he was playing at a dance, and had a spiritual experience that would lead him to an even deeper faith. With these circumstances, he leaned into God and the love that Our Heavenly Father has for all of us. Knowles Shaw would later become known for his interest in individuals with a complex relationship to religion and the church. Instead of turning them away for a lack of faith, he used his faith to try to strengthen theirs, as well. God does not turn us away when we lack faith in Him; He waits for us to return to Him, and it is our responsibility to treat those around us with the same compassion. 

Bringing in the Sheaves stands as a reminder to love one another as our Father loves us. He sent his only Son for us, and we should love one another as best we can. We have been given the ultimate gift of eternal life, and should strive to show our gratitude and understanding of this through our treatment of God’s other children on Earth. Drawing from Psalm 126:5-6, which speaks of sowing in tears and reaping in joy, Knowles continues the message that we are all part of God’s end plan. Like the farmer harvests his crop at the close of a season, our Heavenly Father waits to carry us with Him for safekeeping. It is also our responsibility, while here on Earth, to be faithful and loving servants, so that heaven may be full of God’s children.