My friend Tony Greene

To be honest I have no idea if anybody even reads this page but for me this post will be therapeutic.

Today my friend Tony Greene passed away at 4:25 pm. Honestly I'm not sure of all the details, but one thing I do know is that he suffered greatly during the last few years of his life. He suffered yet he served!!! Knowing "Buck" like I did, his pain never overshadowed his passion. This was a hilariously funny guy that loved his GOD, his family, and his career very much.

I traveled with him the entire year of 2003 while his brother Tim Greene was dealing with a very serious health battle of his own. To me it was the opportunity of a lifetime! I know it sounds self-centered, but Tony took a chance on a newly-wedded kid that just wanted to sing and serve God. During that year, I myself faced many hard times while being away from my family; however, being able to serve God alongside Tony and Taranda, made life do-able.

Singing every night of my life the songs of the Father was a dream come true. Songs like Miracle In Me, Marching to Glorious City of God, Hold On, Take Me Up The Hill and He's Alive rejuvenated my spirit and helped me serve and love God more. After a year of traveling, Tony and Taranda were no longer my friends, but my family. Did we fight? Yes. Did we disagree? Yes Did we love even harder? YES!!

Sitting on the bus, cracking jokes, rehearsing songs, and of course eating was standard. Leaving venues talking about what God just did were the most memorable. I remember Tony saying more times than not..."Son, it got in Glory didn't it? My answer was always "yes sir it did!"

He sure taught me a lot about how to do ministry and sometimes how NOT to do ministry but the one thing I will take away from my time was this. Preach, sing, and never hold back!!

You see friends, I believe Jesus is coming back soon!!! Gone are the times for simply great voices singing great songs!! We have to Preach, Sing, and never hold back. Tony taught me how to do all three at the same time!!!

I'm thankful tonight for his friendship, his mentorship, and his brotherhood to me. I love you Tony Greene! Through my tears, I write this one truth, I WILL see you again and we WILL march together in that "Glorious City Of God!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3Nr6RbM8ks