CHESTER SMITH passed away on Friday.  To the world he is known as an old time Country and Western star. 

He also made millions buying UHF television licenses, including several stations that became Fox affiliates when the network started.  Everything he touched turned to gold.

Along with his successes in music and business, he was also a bright star in the Body of Christ, humblingly serving in music, healing, and deliverance ministries.  He was a fixture in the old Full Gospel Businessmen's meetings throughout the country, when Demos Shakarian led that ministry.  Later he continued to work with Ronny Svenhard in Business Men’s Fellowship USA.

In the early nineties, I had the privilege to serve with Chester as MC for his special meetings sponsored by the Christian television program—The Eleventh Hour—in Stockton and Sacramento, which continued for a year or two.  As a board member for those meeting, I can assure you that Chester never profited from his ministry—as if he needed the money.

Instead, he served his Savior following his calling, and demonstrated God’s power in a humble fashion and in small venues that is uncommon in the Church today.  I personally observed amazing miracles, which continue to impact my understanding of the unseen spiritual world.

Jesus must have been thinking of Chester when he imagined those unique few rich men who would thread the eye of the needle.