One of our worship leading choir members went home to be with the Lord yesterday afternoon. Steve believed he was separated out to serve as a worship leader. He took it very seriously. He was quiet, but he was always there.
In the twenty-fifth chapter of I Chronicles we find insights into the philosophy and musical practice of the Chief Levite musicians. "Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, psalteries and cymbals . . . the number of them who were trained in singing to the Lord, all who were skillful, was 288."
Notice that the decree was that the musicians be separated out for service. They were separated to serve. Each was a workman who ministered according to his talent and ability to serve. The Hebrew word naba translates "prophesy" in the KJV and means "to speak or sing by inspiration". The same word is used by Jeremiah and Ezekiel. They sang and played under the influence of Jehovah. They were not merely performers; they were ministering servants. They were making music for God and for His glory. It was God's music performed by God's set apart musicians. They were the presenters of God's message through music. That is serious business. God obviously takes it serious. Because of that, Steve Lentz took it very seriously.
In fact, Steve would plan out of town trips around Worship Choir rehearsals, and leading worship with the choir on Sundays. Many times he did this. He was faithful to his calling. He didn't consider himself a volunteer, but one who was called. O Lord, give me a choir-full with that heart.
We will miss his spirit among us and his example for us, and yet his legacy lives on. Thank you, Lord, for giving us Steve Lentz to minister along side for these few years.
