"I can only imagine"...

I have yet to see Aaron Shust perform live. The first opportunity I missed because of family obligations (his and mine), the second because I told too many stories at the supper table. Maybe next time?

I have never been that person who is a fanatic about any one artist. I know I like christian music and have since my mom bought me a walkman and an Amy Grant cassette. When I got to college I met people who had more useless information about music and artists than I could ever believe. I just listened because I liked it. (luv you KLW) My friend kept me current on the Christian music front by letting me read her magazines, and letting me sing in the practice rooms to her accompaniment on the piano. Over the years she has invited me to a concert here and then, where I am again surrounded by amazing music and worship opportunities. I can count on my hands how many concerts I have been to in my entire life and most if not all have been Christian artists. When I became sick with Hodgkin's this same consistent friend loaded up an ipod shuffle with praise and worship music for me to listen to during chemo. She has since asked me if I wanted the music changed to which I have defiantly said, "heck no". I cannot tell you what artist sings what and although many of the songs were familiar to me last night at the Mercy Me concert I wouldn't have been able to tell you who performed them if I had not had the ticket in front of me. The mo hawk and loud guitar actually scared me at first but I was quickly reminded that there is not a dress code or consistent look to a Christian. We come in all shapes, sizes, colors and some even work in bike shops. (right B?) Some of us wear combat boots and put egg whites in our hair, some of us put on a down vest and huge gaudy earrings. We both have the same purpose, to serve HIM. Warriors, the lead singer for Audio Adrenaline
called us. We are all warriors. Our defining similarity is that all of us have had an experience that has affected us in a way that we cannot deny the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The theme for last night was "only He is worth hearing". Where ever we are in our journey, whatever we are doing let us remember why we are here; because of our Lord and Savior! Who, for reasons incomprehensible to me, is in love with me. And you know what? He loves you, too.

"I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk
By Your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes will see
When Your face
Is before me
I can only imagine
{Chorus}:Surrounded by Your glory,
what will my heart feel
Will I dance for You Jesus or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
When that day comes
And I find myself
Standing in the Son
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine"

MERCY ME
Story behind the song
Millard's lyrics grew out of a period of tremendous personal pain. In 1991, his father died after a long battle with cancer. When people told him that his dad would choose heaven over coming back, the 18-year-old began thinking about what his dad was experiencing in heaven. After that, he found himself repeating the phrase "I can only imagine." He began writing it on napkins, paper bags, and anything he could find. The phrase resonated in his heart and gave him the strength and hope he needed to move on.