At the intersection of worship and artistry stands Meredith Joy Keller, a senior at Biola University and a rising voice in Christian music. With a heart rooted in Scripture and a passion for unity across denominations, she is already making waves as an independent artist, co-writing worship songs, and leading others into the presence of God. From her upbringing in Columbus, Ohio, to navigating life and ministry in Los Angeles, Meredith’s journey is marked by prayer, purpose, and a desire to reflect Christ through every lyric. In this interview, she shares her inspirations, recent releases, and the call to build bridges within the Church.
What inspires your songwriting and worship leading?
I truly believe that God is moving powerfully in the church right now, and as Isaiah says, “Behold, He is doing a new thing.” One of the most exciting parts of songwriting for the Lord and leading worship is when God reveals a specific aspect of His character through a song or directs me to a particular Bible passage. It’s even more amazing when other Christian songwriters are drawn to the same passages, showing that God is indeed at work.
Can you share the story behind one of your songs?
One of my first songs, “Belong to You,” from my EP HOME, was inspired by Jesus’ prayer to the Father for the future church in John 17. The song reminded me that my identity is rooted in Christ alone—that we do not belong to this world but to Him. In that belonging, peace, hope, and rest abound. I was recently thrilled to hear that contemporary artist Matt Maher is also releasing a song based on John 17.
What’s one of the most rewarding parts of being a Christian songwriter?
One of the most rewarding aspects is when a fan reaches out, whether in person or through social media, to share how God has used my music to bless them or draw them closer to His heart. As an independent artist, it can sometimes feel like my music isn’t making an impact. It’s easy to focus on streaming numbers, but seeing those numbers represented as real people—believers growing in their relationship with God through my songs—is another matter. I pray that my music helps others experience God in a deeper, more personal way.
You’re a college student who is also starting your music ministry. What are you studying, and how do you manage both?
As mentioned, I’m a senior at Biola University, double majoring in Music and Public Relations with a minor in Biblical Studies. In addition to my regular class schedule, I also work at the university’s Career Center, helping fellow students navigate their paths at Biola and beyond. I assist with practical matters such as resumes, cover letters, and internship applications. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is connecting with students at the start of our sessions and praying with them. College can be stressful, and I want them to know that God is guiding their steps.
In addition to working at the Career Center, I’m a section leader for the Biola Chorale and actively involved in Biola’s theater and opera programs. I also lead worship at various churches in the Southern California area, host worship nights, and co-write songs with other Christian artists.
Fun fact: I prefer co-writing to writing solo. I love collaborating with other believers because how we experience intimacy with Jesus can look different for everyone.
Did you grow up around Christian music? What artists have inspired you over the years?
Yes, I grew up surrounded by Christian music, but it wasn’t until middle and high school that I began to connect with it. One song that deepened my love for worship was “Rest On Us” by worship band Upperroom, which was released during COVID-19. As a junior in high school, the pandemic caused me to ask some big questions—like “Who am I, and what was I created for?” In high school, it’s easy to define yourself by your friends or school, but when everything was taken away, I had to grapple with who I am beyond all that.
Then I heard “Rest On Us,” which drew me back to the Lord. I felt Him saying, “Rest in Me. I am the one you’ve been searching for.” From that moment, I fell in love with worship, which has been a significant part of my life ever since.
You’re deeply passionate about building bridges across denominations. What divides do you see regularly, and how can we work toward unity?
One of the most significant divides I see is between Catholicism and Protestantism. I’m passionate about the history and progression of the Church, and I believe there’s so much both traditions can offer each other. For example, Protestant churches could be enriched by the beauty of Catholic tradition—the reverence for God’s mysteries, the study of the saints, and the deep sense of awe in worship. At the same time, Catholics could learn from Protestants’ understanding of the gospels and Jesus’ passion, as well as the freedom and spontaneity that characterizes much of Protestant worship.
As a senior at an evangelical university, I’m surrounded by students from all denominations. Having led worship in various churches, I pray that the body of Christ can come together in unity and love. As the gospels remind us, without love, everything else is meaningless. If we can build relationships based on that love, we can break down those divides and experience the unity Christ prayed for.
Tell us about your latest single, “Jesus in the Room.”
“Jesus in the Room” is a song I co-wrote with songwriter Joshua Cockerham. We wrote it over Zoom, then prayed over it before producing it in Nashville a month later. We both felt God’s clear leading, knowing He wanted to do something significant with this song, especially as we approach the Easter season. It’s a powerful reminder that God is here with us when we worship as a Church, and we should be thankful for His presence.
A week after I released the song, popular artist Phil Wickham launched “King Is in the Room.” For me, “Jesus in the Room” emphasizes the power of worship, specifically the truth that when two or more gather in His name, He is truly present, as mentioned in Matthew 18:20. This song proclaims His presence is sufficient.
“Jesus in the Room” is an invitation for the Church to step into the fullness of the Lord’s love. Based on Matthew 18:20, the song reminds us that when we gather in His name, He is truly present, working in our hearts. I pray that this song helps people experience His perfect love, which casts out fear [as mentioned in 1 John 4:18], and that it brings freedom as we worship.
What’s next for you musically?
Only God knows what’s next, but I have a new single inspired by Psalm 63:3 that will be released in the next few months, likely in May. I also plan to spend the summer writing more music since I won’t have classes, and I’m excited about performing a few gigs at churches and parishes. Another exciting project is that I’ll be a co-writer for an upcoming album with Urban Encounter Ministries in Columbus, Ohio. Urban Encounter’s mission is to serve as a “community of missionary disciples seeking to return neighborhoods to the heart of Jesus through proclamation, demonstration, and discipleship.” I’m thrilled to be part of that.
How can we be praying for you?
I would appreciate your prayers for the Holy Spirit to guide my songwriting. I want to stay attentive to God’s voice to write music that reflects His will and serves His purpose. Please also pray that I remain open to where God leads me and bold enough to follow His guidance, especially as I approach graduation and the next chapter in my ministry.
Kevin McNeese started NRT in 2002 and has worked in the industry since 1999 in one form or another. He has been a fan of Christian music since 1991.
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