Monday, February 25, 2013

It’s Not About the Blooper Reel: The Inspiration Behind Linger Conference 2014

Do you stay for the roll of credits at the end of a movie? I do.

While other moviegoers herd into the aisles after the last frame, I hold steady in my seat. I’m compelled to linger because I know what it is to work in a creative industry. I figure Assistant #2 to the Props Master deserves to have his name read by somebody.

Often, my quiet acknowledgement comes with a reward. I get to see that unexpected, final bit of dialogue, the slapstick blooper reel or hear the full version of a song from the soundtrack. And even if there’s no hidden gems embedded into the movie’s credits, I’m granted a leisurely stroll out of the theater so I can peacefully ponder the story I’ve just experienced.

The same rule has applied for me at dinner parties, business outings—even in the grocery store checkout line. Through the simple act of not rushing off, I’ve been blessed by more meaningful connections, deeper conversations, one-to-one laughter...not to mention a few slices of pie to go and a couple of tips on upcoming sales.

If I’ve known the benefits of lingering in everyday circumstances, then I’ve most assuredly known the value of lingering in God’s presence. Anytime I move worship off the grid of time constraints and expected formulas, I am blessed with a deeper, more meaningful, one-to-one connection. And the reward of this kind of lingering leaves blooper reels, extra pie or sales tips in the dust. Lingering in God’s presence is life changing.

It’s this simple truth that sparked the genesis of Linger Conference.

Linger Conference is a unique event created to help all of us learn what it is to linger in God’s presence. In two amazing days in Dallas in February 2014, we will assemble some of the brightest speakers, teachers and artists to share in the disassembling of our preconceived notions about spending time in God’s presence. From moments of undiluted worship to sessions that bring us together with like-minded friends and colleagues, Linger Conference is a chance to rest, review and renew so that we can bring more intentional worship back to our churches across the country.

Bring your church staff, your worship team, your best friends...or just yourself...and join us for this special experience. See you at Linger!

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As much as we focus on “lingering,” there is one thing we need you to do quickly: reserve your event tickets! We’re offering significant savings for early bird reservations. Spaces are limited, so make plans today for you and your church group to join us in November!
Sign up now by clicking here.

p.s. - Stay in touch on Twitter and Facebook for ongoing Linger Conference news and announcements!

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