Last night in our church’s Praise and Prayer gathering, I was moved to tears. Nothing “extraordinary” was happening at the moment: there was no powerful testimony being shared or heartfelt prayer being articulated. No, I was just struck by my good friend and colleague, Lee Milam. Lee has been a part of our Mayfair family for over 40 years. This church will be forever indebted to Lee for his many, many years of faithful ministry. He has influenced thousands of teenagers and families during his time as a youth minister. And he has led countless more to the throne of God in praise on a regular basis. I was just struck by this thought: “I wonder how many people Lee has led before the Lord in worship.” I pictured the generations of this church, some with eyes closed, others with hands raised, but each one lifting their burdens and their joys to the Lord in song and spirit, with Lee right there, so capably yet so humbly orchestrating these moments. Lee is an artist, a consummate creative, but he also possesses that most rare artistic quality: humility. He would oftentimes rather lead from his seat than standing before the crowd. And when he steps into the spotlight, he is always quick to share it.

I quickly fumbled for my phone to snap this quick picture of Lee doing what he loves the most. And I did so with a heart overflowing with gratitude.

I don’t know if there will be preaching in heaven. Some would say an eternally long sermon sounds more like hell than heaven! (I would agree.) But I know this: there will be praise. And I am grateful for this servant, one who has given his life to the eternal work of praise and worship. Hallelujah.