After four years leading the people of Mars Hill Church in worship, Red Letter is taking a well-earned break. These world-class musicians volunteer their time, which means they’ve spent thousands of hours playing their guts out for Jesus’ glory. In honor of a solid run, here are five great Red Letter memories:

1) Opening Guitar for "Destructor"

"Destructor" is a Mars Hill original that’s been reinvented throughout the years. Red Letter’s haunting intro matches the nature of the song perfectly. "

2) Mars Hill Music on Vinyl

Red Letter’s studio album on vinyl is perhaps the best if not only opportunity for Seattle indie-rockers to geek out for the glory of God.

3) The Growth of Pastor Joel

Joel Brown went from deacon to pastor during his years leading Red Letter. "I worshiped music," Pastor Joel wrote on The Resurgence, "Now I worship God." Read more what he’s learned as a worship pastor at the Ballard campus.

4) Lecrae’s Backup Band

Rapper Lecrae made a guest appearance at our Ballard campus a few years ago. The result was a mashup of two great songs from two distinct musical traditions united as the church on Jesus’ mission (download the mp3).

5) Heartfelt Worship

Jesus cares about the state of our hearts—not the quality of our voice or the volume of our guitars. But I guarantee the music in heaven will be the best any of us have ever heard. Good music on earth provides a small glimpse of what it will sound like in the throne room of God, which often results in a more passionate listener response (whether in secular or sacred contexts). Thank you, Red Letter, for using your gift to create good, godly music that has helped thousands express their love of the living God. Thanks to the families of the band members as well, who sacrificed a lot so that husbands and fathers could take time to serve the church in this unique way. Find Pastor Jamie on Facebook and Twitter.