Well, my blog has been a little infrequent these last few days not because the time has failed to be continually mindblowing, but because the experiences have not been 'new'. That is, this week had a very similar schedule to last week's schedule--going to Matt's classes and all, seeing amazing speakers, hearing amazing music. It's been great!

On Wednesday, at the rehearsal for Sundays services, we found out that the whole United group (Joel Houston, JD, Nigel, Jad, etc.) along with Darlene Zchesch would be returning this week. Darlene sent a message to the 300 or so in attendance, that she was really looking forward to their annual Saturday workshop/retreat, which was full--over 500 people. The next day Matt and I were up in Tim's office at Hillsong (Tim is the production manager on all the Hillsong CDs/DVDs, if I didn't mention it in a previous blog). Tim happened to be working on the Saturday retreat, and was able to get us into the packed event.

So, this morning we headed to downtown Sydney early and reserved our spot at a banquet table in the reserved Dockside banquet room overlooking Darling Harbour from the second story. When we arrived early, we asked Tim if he needed any help with anything, since he had hooked us up, so last-minute. He asked if we'd run to Starbucks and grab some coffees. Gladly!! (Starbucks aren't on every corner here, like in the US). He told us he wanted a coffee and Darlene wanted a Decaf Soy Latte. He gave Matt some money, and my plan was quickly set into place. I told Matt to keep the money. I ordered Darlene's coffee and paid for it. I've got pictures!! I wanted to say 'I bought Darlene Zchesch a coffee', and so now I can. Don't get me wrong--this was not about a good deed or even kindness. No, this was a most selfish act, rooted in pride and an ability to boast. I bought Darlz coffee. That's right. Me and Darlz. We're tight.

When we returned United was set up in the banquet room. Marty led with JD by his side. It was great--really simple--as if I had got some friends together and set up a band in a banquet room. But, again...it was an amazing time. Darlene gave a wonderful, inspiring message for about an hour. Joel Houston gave an overview of their recent US tour. The featured speaker was flown in from another Australian city and challenged the Hillsong WACA (Worship and Creative Arts) team of 550+ to keep their hearts soft and their ministry rooted in tenderness and love for people. It was moving. Overall, it was good to see that this big machine that is Hillsong church--the CDs, DVDs, the big shows, the international following--all starts in this humble room, with authentic people who have a belief and a conviction that they are willing to give their very lives for. Darlene said it well: "I did not give up my life for music, or albums, or an industry. (She makes 3 'gag' sounds as she sticks her finger in her mouth.) I gave it up for the sake of my God." I have never in my life seen such humble people who have no earthly reason to be humble. They are not satisfied to be where they are--they are hungry for more, desperate to move forward. And, as with seemingly everything at Hillsong, it begins with the leaders and filters down to each and every person who is willing to be a part of such a cause.

Two more days to go...I'm looking forward to being back in Clovis.