Bev Shea gave us all a powerful lesson in telling the story of Jesus. Whether one likes his style or the genre of music, it is refreshing to see a man who in such a simple, forthright way went straight for the heart. When he sang "I'd Rather Have Jesus" (which he also wrote) you immediately knew how personal that story was and it sent arrows straight to the heart of the listener.
For many singers, the music becomes the message. Not for Bev Shea. The tune was only a vehicle to bring the love and comfort of Jesus to a parched and aching heart. Much of the time his accompaniment was only a piano or organ because he wanted to keep it as simple as possible. Billy Graham said he never wanted to preach unless Bev sang first because when the song was over the audience was ready for the sermon. It was a perfect combination; both used their gift to tell The Story. In an age when music can become a cacophony of noise, George Beverly Shea spoke to the heart and the message he shared brought Jesus close and very personal. It was beyond the music.
