Written at the request of John Lam for the Canadian Staff Band to open Festival 56 - a celebration concert honouring John's leadership, Life Anew is based on the hymn I Know a Fount, a song deeply significant to John since his first National Music Camp.

Drawing from this theme, the music reflects John's personal testimony: a life made new through the renewing, life-giving power of Christ. Subtle motifs woven throughout the piece nod to meaningful moments in John's musical journey, and the work concludes with his favourite final chord progression, a musical signature marking the close of a remarkable season of faithful service with the Canadian Staff Band.

Verse 1
Say, are you weary? Are you heavy laden?
Burdened with sorrow, weighted down with care?
Are you in bondage? Do you want deliverance?
Come, then, with me, there is refuge from despair.

Chorus
I know a fount where sins are washed away,
I know a place where night is turned to day;
Burdens are lifted, blind eyes made to see;
There's a wonder working power
In the blood of Calvary.