Says founding member and acclaimed singer Amber Eppinette Saunders, “This song was written by Garrett and Nathan Woodard, and it is an actual prayer. Many times people wake in the middle of the night with a burden so heavy, but we can remember there is always someone listening and always someone who cares, no matter the time of night.”

Fittingly, the song’s first verse is delivered over hushed guitar and a steady percussive beat that echoes the ticking of a clock marking the passage of time in a troubled night:

Dear Heavenly Father, it’s 2 a.m.
I know we talked a while ago, but here I am again 
I hope I’m no bother but I’m wide awake
I’ve got a lot on my mind and all I know is You’re the only one up this late
I hope You don’t mind listening for a little while
Dear Heavenly Father 

And though the second verse deepens the texture and leads to two powerful choruses that frame Garrett’s voice with harmonies from Amber and Victoria Bowlin, the performance ultimately circles back at the closing, as his lone voice recaps the vulnerability of the song’s opening. With a message made all the more compelling by its frank depiction of a soul in need, “Dear Heavenly Father” shows once again 11th Hour’s ability to place bold, yet sensitive creativity in the service of bedrock faith.

About 11th Hour
“There is nothing more fulfilling than ministering to the body of Christ and sharing the gospel,” says Amber Eppinette Saunders. “Every dream we have ever had, God has already fulfilled. He never ceases to amaze us!” 11th Hour has stayed fresh and relevant since their inception while maintaining a versatile sound, able to lead congregations in moving times of worship.

11th Hour has had multiple Top 10 Singing News hits and been nominated for numerous awards in Southern Gospel music such as Singing News Trio of the Year and AGM Album of the Year, while Amber was nominated for Soprano of the Year.

There’s so much more work to be done as Amber, Garrett Saunders and Victoria Bowlin continue to step out in faith. 11th Hour is ready to go wherever the Lord opens doors, singing and proclaiming the Good News of Jesus.