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Michael Billings: A Musical Tribute Benjamin Botkin

Michael G. Billings went home to glory on November 4th, 2007, at the youthful age of 19. He was no ordinary youth, however. Michael’s life was marked by humble service and zealous dedication for the cause of Christ. He sought to obey God’s Law with all his heart and to waste no time in foolish pursuits. His passion was to fill every moment with purpose for the Lord—to redeem the time, for the days are evil (Ephesians 5:16).

And so he did. Michael discharged his duties with unrelenting zeal, and he urged others to do the same. His life-message was this: “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14). His appeal was urgent: “Night is falling! You must seize the day.”

His was a race well run and a life well lived. His testimony touched the lives of many, and his legacy will continue to be an inspiration to the people of God for years to come.

This piece entitled “Michael Billings: A Musical Tribute,” was composed by Benjamin Botkin in honor of Michael’s short, but remarkable life. Ben shared the following about his composition:

“I wrote 'Michael Billings: A Musical Tribute' as a testimony to the honor and memory of one whom Christ has used in my life and the lives of many for the Glory of God. I view music as a medium of communication created by God for the purpose of giving Him glory, and I therefore wrote this piece with specific goals and feelings in mind.

“Chiefly, I wanted the music to communicate the significance of Michael's life and the sorrow that we feel at his loss. For the unbeliever, the death of a loved one is the beginning of despair, but for the Christian it is the end of sin's curse and the beginning of eternal joy and communion with Christ! Thus I wanted the music to communicate the joy, glory, peace, and perfection that the perfect love of Jesus Christ brings.

“This love is what drives the Christian. This love is what drove Michael, and if by writing this piece of music I can in any way help that love become the thing that drives others, it is by the grace of God alone to the glory of God alone.”