NEXT

Organizing a conference isn’t that difficult. Remembering to organize everything—there’s the challenge (especially for those among us who are…well, let’s say, more mature)!

One moment we are drawing up a detailed floor plot of the main session hall to send for the approval of the Fire Marshall—the next moment we are making a note to buy extra AAA batteries for the headset mic.

One moment we are arranging the travel and lodging for the speakers— the next moment we are talking with local Police because the Orioles have a game next door during the conference.

One moment we are recruiting Community Group Leaders—the next moment we are asking someone to drive the rental truck.

One moment we are discussing what book titles to have in the bookstore—the next moment we are ensuring that we have got adequate insurance coverage.

One moment we are making a list of all the signs we need to design and manufacture—the next moment we are responding to the many people offering to serve throughout the conference.

One moment we are renting two-way radios—the next moment we are drawing up the Session Schedule so everyone knows what’s happening when.

One moment we are checking on the hours Starbucks will be open—the next moment we are preparing a packing list.

One moment we are asking IT to provide a printer onsite—the next moment we are negotiating the contracts for Next 2011 and 2012.

You get the picture.

Oh, it’s fun!  We love it. But we want to be sure that in the midst of all the planning and the details, we are not doing what we like/want, but what God has for those attending. We want all the details set so no one attending is distracted by something we miss or get wrong. And above all, we want our labors to be pleasing to God.

Please pray for us (and especially for Grant Layman and Paul Medler as they meet most Friday mornings to plan the logistics).