July 5: Remembering Glenn Edward Burleigh

On this day, not nearly enough years ago for him to have gone from labor to reward (perhaps for him, but not for us who are left behind and miss him dearly), a musical giant was born into a family of musicians and ministers.  I am not familiar with his folks, but am blessed for having known Glenn Edward Burleigh.  And even now, when his soul is at rest, I take great joy and comfort in visiting his music often. 

As powerful as it was, Glenn's music was not for everyone.  He did not write to be a commercial success.  He did not write for the crossover market.  He did not write jingles on demand.  He wrote for the Lord, to His glory.  

There were no national headlines when Glenn passed away -- typical, as society is only shocked into mourning those whose monied lives were sensational, tawdry, messes -- while those who went about the business of living lives worthy of the breath God gave them, fade away as unsung heroes. This cannot happen on my watch, nor the watch of anyone who is blessed by the singing or hearing of works like --

• Order My Steps 
• Well, the Savior is Born 
• You Shall Be Free Indeed  
• I'm Gonna Rise 
• Just Because You're God 
• What Does All This Mean 
• You Must Be Like a Child 
• I Know 
• That My Redeemer Liveth
• Spiritual Medley Jesus Doeth 
• All Things Well 
• Agnus Dei 

or any number of the many original compositions and hymn arrangements, the notes of which were poured out of the windows of heaven and into the soul of Glenn Edward Burleigh and of which he made a record so as to be preserved for the edifying of the body of Christ, the encouragement of the souls of believers, and the hearing of the Gospel set to music so as to witness to the lost.

I have said before, and say now, that Glenn's music transcends time, generations, races, cultures, denominations, ethnicities, worship styles, and any other barrier that humankind may use to divide us.  Rather than exclusionary, Glenn used music to bring us together, to include all at the table.  We dare not let it gather dust, go unplayed or unsung.  To do so would be to slap God in His face, and tell Him we do not want and we do not appreciate His gifts.  I dare not.  How about you?