Random memorable moments and blessings from the GCI conference in Orlando

This post was contributed by worship leader Mike Hale.

Just returned from the Renewed In Christ GCI denominational conference in Orlando FL, where I was blessed to serve with the Higher Ground praise band in lifting prayers and songs of thanks, petition and praise with 1,100 worshipers.

What a colorful kaleidoscope of humanity from around the globe – unique but unified persons sharing in Spirit with Jesus – our true Minister of the Sanctuary – in his ongoing worship of the Father.

Following is my random list of memorable moments and blessings from the wonderful week. Your own comments and memorable moments are most welcome!

• Memorable call to worship – tie between Because of Your Love by Paul Baloche, and “You Are Good” by Israel Houghton
• Favorite traditional hymn – the Christie Nockels version of Praise to the Lord, the Almighty with the Hallelujah sections
• Sermon by Dan Rogers
• Being invited by Ross Jutsum to share a few words during his worship workshops to comment about singing and praying as it were, through the lips of Jesus—our risen and ascended High Priest and Mediator.
• Favorite reflective song – tie between “All Who Are Thirsty” by B. Brown and G. Robertson, and “Grace Flows Down” by Bell, Giglio and Padgett
• The Elmer Colyer story about giving away those $10 bills to the local church scoundrel during a sermon about grace
• Favorite hallway conversation with a theologian – Gary Deddo
• Seeing prayers from three years ago answered as Marianne Dobritch joined Higher Ground to sing “Elation” that she and Steven wrote for teen ministry
• Song request – “Power of Your Love” for GCI President, Joseph Tkatch
• The hole in Ed Stetzer’s shoe
• Most comments on a song – Where to find a recording of “I Will Not Be Shaken” by Tommy Walker (with the “Holy, Holy, Holy” section). It's from his latest CD, Overflow
• Favorite meal with a theologian – dinner with John McKenna
• Favorite comment from the band – Buddy (lead guitar) after being complimented on a great instrumental solo, quoted Thelonious Monk -- “You should hear what I MEANT to play!”
• Hugs, handshakes, tears and laughter with many hundreds of the brethren during every day of the conference
• Favorite song of sending – “All Things” (Romans 11:33-36) sung to the top of our lungs following communion in the last service