TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
14th Jan 2015
Last week I was saddened by the news of the death of Andrae Crouch. It was more than 40 years ago that I was introduced to his music, and from the moment I first heard him singing his unique brand of black gospel, I became an instant fan and have bought his albums ever since.
It was not just the music that impacted me, but Andrae’s passion for Jesus and the strong uncompromising message of his songs. At a live concert in London I heard him sing, “Jesus is the answer for the world today, above him there’s no other, Jesus is the way.” His life was lived to give glory to God and to share his passionate faith. I have put a link to probably his most famous song, “My Tribute” - “To God be the glory for the things He has done, With His blood He has saved me, with His power He has raised me.” I suggest you watch this YouTube clip, it is moving and inspiring.
He regularly appeared at Billy Graham Crusades, at one of these he shares testimony of how in a time of great need he proved that God was sufficient for all his needs, the words ring out, “Through it all, I’ve learned to trust in Jesus, I’ve learned to trust in God.”Watch “Through it all.” on YouTube.
He knew what is was to fall, and what it was to be restored and always included songs encouraging folk to reconnect with Jesus. One of those songs says, “Take me back dear Lord, to the place where I first received you, renew my faith, restore my joy.”
People all around the world have been paying tribute to Andrae, a seven time Grammy Award winner, who had a worldwide reputation and among other things appeared on songs with Michael Jackson, Madonna and played on the soundtrack of Lion King. Fame never dimmed his vibrant faith and the bold message of his powerful songs.
His last live concert included the song, “We are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is God’s power of salvation; to everyone that believes it.”
That about says it all!
by Charles Sibthorpe
