A Music Lesson from Mr. Shea

Proverbs 22:1 - A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, [and] loving favour rather than silver and gold.

You may have heard the news that the beloved and famed gospel singer George Beverly Shea, who regularly opened for Dr. Billy Graham at his crusades for nearly six decades, passed away Tuesday evening "following a brief illness." He was 104. (Yes, 104 years young!) His rendition of "How Great Thou Art" came to define the faith of a Protestant generation that Graham helped bring to Jesus Christ," noted the Associated Press. "He performed live before an estimated 200 million people at crusades over the years — taking him from North Dakota to North Korea and beyond." That’s a pretty great letter of recommendation from the media! Although, the Christian understands it wasn’t the applause of people or the fame that Mr. Shea craved. His desire (as he voiced on many occasions) was to please and serve God.

One writer said, "Since George Beverly Shea first sang for Graham in 1943 on the Chicago radio hymn program, “Songs in the Night,” Shea has faithfully carried the Gospel in song to every continent and every state in the Union. Graham’s senior by ten years, Shea devotedly preceded the evangelist in song in nearly every Crusade over the span of more than one-half century." The history of George Beverly Shea, in many senses, is the history of Christian music in the 20th century," noted his authorized biographer, Paul Davis, in an interview after Shea's 100th birthday. "The number of people George has sung to is larger than anybody else in history. We know that because broadly speaking, it's the same number that Billy Graham has preached to." Mr. Shea was also the oldest Grammy winner in American history – winning a Grammy at age 102.

Said Billy Graham: “I first met Bev Shea while in Chicago when he was on Moody Radio. As a young man starting my ministry, I asked Bev if he would join me. He said yes and for over 60 years we had the privilege of ministering together across the country and around the world. Bev was one of the most humble, gracious men I have ever known and one of my closest friends. I loved him as a brother. My prayer for his wife, Karlene, and his children, Ron and Elaine, is that God will strengthen them during this time.”

I thought that was a beautiful sentiment – that Dr. Graham loved Mr. Shea as a brother and that he thought he was a gracious man. I think there’s a lesson to be learned here – a music lesson of sorts. But let me preface, that as a Christian, we know that it isn’t healthy or spiritually nutritious to fix our eyes “on man.” We should ONLY look to Jesus as an example for righteous living. You know He is the only person who won’t let us down, right?

First, Mr. Shea surrounded himself with other Believers. On a steady basis! Other people who encouraged him to stay the course. I’ve never met Dr. Billy Graham, but I think that he’s a pretty good example of a faithful friend! I heard Dr. Graham say recently that he had “been friends with “Bev” for over 70 years and I still like him better than I like myself.” {Life Moment – that’s quite a testimony! We should all be worthy of being called a great friend!} Just like music notes accompany one other – the Christian is wise to keep company with other Believers. You’re more likely to receive good support and Godly prayers from Godly people.

Secondly, Mr. Shea didn’t quit. I’m sure he experienced trials and tribulations like we all do. Yet, he stayed the course. He finished his God-called duty. When his arthritis and age were a challenge to his personal affliction – he persevered – traveled thousands of miles every year to sing the Gospel to people sacrificially. He put God before his own wants/needs. I know in writing music, stories, or books, a writer will often put the body of work down. Walk away. And then go back and pick it up again. We should glean from this – keep pushing through, get up again, face another day with God on our side. It’s good for the Christian to face each trial with “Blessed Assurance!” The tip …the Christian knows that Jesus is with you. HE won’t quit.

Finally, Mr. Shea remained humble. He took no glory in his own talents or fame. He continuously uplifted the name of Jesus. Some people have said that “Bev” sang with humility that pointed others to the Cross without pretension.” What a wonderful testimony! As heavenly hymns do so well, as Mr. Shea did, the Christian’s heart should point people to the cross! It is there, at the Cross – where the ground is level.

Look UP my friends!