Hollywood

Sorry, no pictures yet! I flew in yesterday and Andy met me at the airport. Today while he was at the Purpose Drive Youth Ministry Conference at Saddleback Church, I explored a bit of CA. I admit, I was a bit nervous about being on my own, but thanks to all the driving skills I acquired out in NJ, I could handle the six lanes of really fast (or more often than not, really slow...) traffic. I began my journey touring the Crystal Cathedral. Then I made my way north to Hollywood- saw the Wax Museum, HOLLYWOOD sign on the hill, and the walk of fame. Then I did a bit of a driving tour along Sunset BLVD, Santa Monica BLVD, and zipped down Rodeo Drive. I also drove into some of the neighborhoods at Beverly Hills just to see what the houses looked like. I got back on the interstate, drove south to meet Andy for dinner. I was on my own from 9am-5pm and no one robbed me! :)
We ate at a fun restaurant and had fish tacos (much better than the name sounds!) and then I was able to attend the worship service at the conference. How wonderful to be able to worship in however I felt comfortable. No concerns about people watching me and judging me- I could just enjoy the opportunity to worship. What a great gift to give to youth pastors who so often must "perform" or lead or organize the service. It was wonderful to sit back and be apart of a group of worshippers. If words were incorrect on the screen, there was no fear of people complaining to us. It was awesome.
One song really touched my heart. Andy and I love music by Hillsong United, and this was one they did. Here are the lyrics but if you get a chance, listen to it online.

You stood before creation
Eternity within Your hand
You spoke the earth into motion
My soul now to stand

You stood before my failure
Carried the Cross for my shame
My sin weighed upon Your shoulders
My soul now to stand

So what can I say
What can I do
But offer this heart O God
Completely to You

So I'll walk upon salvation
Your Spirit alive in me
This life to declare Your promise
My soul now to stand

So what can I say
What can I do
But offer this heart O God
Completely to You

So I’ll stand
With arms high and heart abandoned
In awe of the One who gave it all

So I’ll stand
My soul Lord to You surrendered
All I am is Yours