God Sighting: Celebrating 50 Years of Music Ministry

“If you can use your gifts to inspire others to share theirs, you’ve done part of your job as a Christian.”

In 1974, Keith Heckman moved back to Lincoln and joined Sheridan. In those days, located on Sheridan Boulevard, Sheridan was a church of traditional worship, which often featured brass instruments. As a professional musician (although primarily a partner and owner of Dietze Music), Keith was eager to share his gifts, as he is a tuba player.

Over the years, the music ministry of Sheridan grew, and Keith added playing bass to his serving at Sheridan. In 1998, when Sheridan transitioned to contemporary worship, Keith became one of the primary bassists in the praise band. Keith loved it!

Keith had a thriving professional career. A key player in the Lincoln music scene, Keith was regularly tapped to play when big name acts would come to town. He played in the ensembles for the likes of Bob Hope, The Carpenters, Mèl Torme and Florence Henderson, as part of the Aksarben concert arena. He also had a brass quartet that played prior to home football games for several decades, and he played in the Civic Band.

Recently, Keith realized that he has been playing (actually, serving) at Sheridan for more than 50 years! Keith has been a stalwart in our praise band on both Sundays and Wednesdays. He referred to his ministry as “my real pleasure.” Speaking of the volunteers (our praise band members are unpaid), “The people are great. Everyone enjoys playing music here as much as I do, and they really want to give of themselves.”

As the owner of a music store, Keith is inspired by watching young people find their talent – especially on a Wednesday evening. “This year we have three young bass players! I really hope they stick with it.”
What Keith has always understood is the responsibility to share one’s God-given gifts. He has felt this with his community involvement, but especially with his ministry at Sheridan. “If you can use your gifts to inspire others to share theirs, you’ve done part of your job as a Christian.” If you would like to explore your musical gifts, people of all levels of proficiency are welcome to learn more. After all, as Keith affirms, “I don’t know anything else I’d rather being doing more than this.

By Pastor Greg Bouvier