“What’s Right With Willow Creek…”

Tonight marks the finish line of an intense six day marathon, yet I feel more energized now than before the race began. Doesn’t sound quite right, does it? But it’s true -

…After driving 1470 miles for 25+ hours in a van packed with 6 people who now know each other WAYYY too well…
…After three days at the Willow Creek Arts Conference being drenched with wave after wave of provocative teaching, inspiring worship, practical, idea-packed seminars, and breathtakingly creative music, media and drama…
…After returning home just in time to gear up for an unforgettable weekend of Father’s Day worship services…

Here I am on the other side of the finish line – full, refreshed, re-invigorated. And I believe the same is true for each leader on our team who made the trip to the arts conference. Our spiritual, emotional, relational, and ministry cups are full. The long-term kind of “full” that will impact our lives and ministries for months to come.

“Hallelujah – What’s Right With the World” was the conference theme this year, and the best part about being there to fuel up, and coming home to get back to work, is the thought that kept running through my mind throughout this marathon. It was this: “Hallelujah – What’s Right With CROSSWINDS.” I got to be reminded one more time of who we are as a church and worship arts ministry, how far we have come, and how hopeful our future looks. I am enormously grateful to serve alongside our incredible volunteers and worship arts staff – each one a key member of my own personal Dream Team. It was great to get away. It is even better to be back home.