Shine as the Light follows traditional Salvation Army band music principles in its programmatic or story telling outline.

In essence, the music depicts a journey from darkness to light, expanding on the theme of Joy Webb’s song, “The Candle of the Lord”, which lies at the larger work’s core. Webb’s song provides both the textual and thematic basis; in particular, the falling figure (a minor 3rd) with which the song’s chorus concludes, “Light me” is utilized at key points in the music.

The music is dedicated to the memory of Captain Al Honsberger.