Music, Mission and the Impact of a Faithful Legacy
What Marks Your Journey?
Josh Havens
One of my favorite things I get to see when I’m traveling is that moment where the gospel is shared, and people have a chance to respond. It’s something truly close to my heart; a sight to behold as it unfolds across the globe. We were in Moldova an hour from the Ukrainian border just in 2023.
From the remote reaches of Mongolia to the rugged Highlands of Scotland, down to the vast expanses of the Australian Outback, these journeys have taken me to places I never dreamt I’d see, offering me the incredible privilege to share the love of Jesus.
Remarkable Encounters and Lifelong Friendships
My adventures have allowed me to share stages with remarkable individuals like Franklin and Will Graham, with whom I’ve forged deep friendships over the years. When they share the gospel, it’s amazing! No matter where you are, or what language is spoken, the gospel always works. It always changes lives, and I get goosebumps even thinking about it.
I’ve seen people running from their seats from the top of the arena. They can’t get down there fast enough. Entire families – hand in hand and in tears find freedom. I love seeing how real and raw it is.
And the stories they share afterward about placing their faith in Jesus are incredibly moving and serve as a reminder of why we do what we do.
Witnessing Transformation Across Continents
Our mission isn’t confined to distant lands; we also play across the U.S., but it’s cool to see the global church growing and witnessing this fire for Jesus in far off places. We got to play in Albania, a country that once declared atheism as its constitutional creed.
We got to do an event in their communist assembly hall. There, in a hall that once symbolized the suppression of faith, we proclaimed the name of Jesus, watching thousands embrace faith in Him.
It’s moments like these that mark the journey we’re on – a journey of faith, hope, and love.
Reflecting on Legacy, Influences and Inspirations
I find myself reflecting on the concept of legacy. This was sparked by the lives of those who’ve mentored me, guiding me towards Jesus. My dad, a man who loved Jesus fiercely and loved others with a gentle, unwavering love.
Despite losing him to cancer at the young age of 52, his legacy of kindness, patience, and faith continues to live on in me and my siblings. He was a tangible example of what it means to live a life anchored in love and faith.
I started writing this song thinking about people in my life who have been mentors and steered me in the right direction and pointed to Jesus. I got stuck writing it and it was unfinished until the day that Billy Graham passed away.
Well Done
That day the news was full of all these stories about his life, and they started airing his sermons on the news. It didn’t matter what television station you had on, they were playing Billy Graham sermons, and the gospel was being shared on mainstream news.
And I thought, Wow, if your legacy is that the gospel is shared when you die, you’ve done something, right!
I actually finished writing the song on that day, and it’s called “Well Done.” Since that time, it’s been cool to see how this song has gone on to be used in a lot of end-of-life celebrations for people to remember their loved ones. We’ve had countless stories of people who have used this song to play for their loved one who has gone to be with Jesus.
Looking Forward
When I sing it, I think about what legacy do I want to leave behind? And for the song to remind me that while I’m in this world, God has a lot for me to do here.
As I look forward, with plans to continue sharing the gospel worldwide, I’m reminded that our time here is not just about the moments we live but about the legacy we leave behind. Whether through the joyful noise of music or the quiet strength of lived faith, it’s about making every moment count for something far greater than ourselves.
Josh Havens is the charismatic guitarist and lead vocalist of the popular Christian rock band, The Afters. Known for his soul-stirring lyrics and engaging performances, Josh uses his music to inspire hope and faith in listeners around the world. Offstage, he shares reflections on life, faith, and the power of music to heal and connect us with our Heavenly Father.