A great Christian has died. His obituary says:
“Brian Doerksen was a Canadian Christian singer-songwriter, worship leader, and pastor whose songs shaped the devotional lives of millions of believers around the world.”
He passed away from cancer, on July 21st, 2026. Brian is with Christ now, but the world seems emptier yet richer because of him. He left us with his outstanding treasury of Christian music.
His obituary also correctly says that his “songs shaped the devotional lives of millions of believers around the world.” It’s so true. Brian had a God-given talent that he gave back to God as a song-writer and church leader.His music will enrich believers everywhere for decades to come. His most recognizable song may be “Come, Now Is The Time to Worship.”
I first met Brian at a Christian conference on disability where I was speaking (I have MS). We occasionally crossed paths when I was speaking somewhere and he was performing somewhere. I first heard Brian perform with his band. Wow!
Brain and his wife Joyce have two disabled sons. His music reflected a father’s hard-won wisdom; I was struck by his song Refiners Fire.
Purify my heart, let me be as gold
And precious silver
Purify my heart, let me be as gold
Pure gold
Refiner's fire, my heart's one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for you Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You my Master
Ready to do Your will
God uses suffering to refine and re-define us as children of God. He is more concerned about our holiness and our happiness. My fire has been suffering 40+ years with multiple sclerosis. Brian’s was more excruciating. His love for his sons must have broken his heart. He gave it all to God. My wife once said, “It’s easier to be than to watch.” Perhaps she was right.
Below is a Youtube link to the song Refine's Fire.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLyQAx8DpBI&list=RDMMBLyQAx8DpBI&start_radio=1
