In 4 days I’ve made 3 trips to Chicago and back. Why? To pick up high school kids from around the country converging on our town for a weekend of rehearsals. Six months ago students from all over the country auditioned, and 6 were chosen. Chase, Logan, Tanessa, A.J., Nick, and Brian are now… the IYC Band. This summer in Orlando they will lead about 10,000 Church of God youth in worship at the International Youth Convention.
Before the weekend begins so many questions fill our minds. Will they be good enough? Will their personalities clash? Is this really going to work?
In one weekend they have become a band, miraculously molded together. I see this happen before my eyes, and it's beautiful to see.
They lead worship together for the first time, and it's something special. People are ushered so passionately into God’s presence. I find myself crying on many occasions throughout this weekend of worship, so moved by the music delivered with such passionate love for God.
The drive back from Chicago alone gives me time to pause, reflect and connect my scattered thoughts from a whirlwind weekend. The memories are fresh. In my mind I can still hear the song Hosanna being sung by Tanessa. The words express perfectly the inspiration I feel after spending the weekend with these amazing kids…
"I see a generation rising up to take their place, with selfless faith."
I really do see that!
Posted on
Sun, December 6, 2009
by Chris Spitters