Continuing in the celebratory Sabbath day tradition of the annual NRB (National Religious Broadcasters) Conference, Aspire 2005: An Evening Of Praise And Worship was held last Sunday in the Anaheim Convention Center Ballroom and showcased premier praise & worship leaders John Tesh & Friends, Michael Card, Rebecca St. James, and newcomer Allen Asbury. A moment set apart for attendees to reaffirm their love for the Lord and His blessings in their lives, Aspire left all who were present with warmed hearts and renewed spirits, changing relationships between those gathered from mere business acquaintances to being one in the name of Jesus Christ.

"I think out of all the things we can do for God, the one that brings the greatest return in our lives is when we come surrendered before the Lord in worship," said NRB President Dr. Frank Wright, whose attempt to unify the world of business with worship used economist Vilfredo Pareto?fs 80/20 rule to speak about receiving "maximum return from God."

With its small but comfortable stage area, the event held a humble atmosphere of intimacy, beginning with Card, St. James, and Asbury rotating on the role of worship leader. Singing such traditional classics such as "Emmanuel" and "Breathe," the trio ended their set with a rousing rendition of "How Great Thou Art," driven by Asbury?fs incredible vocal prowess.

After a brief message from Frank Wright as mentioned above, John Tesh, his Friends, and the Saddleback Church Choir took the stage to continue worship. In between classics such as "Heart Of Worship" and "I Can Only Imagine" Tesh took time to give an uplifting testimony as well as speak of his recent newest project, Shades Of Blue – a compilation of crayon drawings from disaster-victim children inspired by the artist?fs recent trip to Sri Lanka.

"This book represents a 'lemonade stand' of sorts for these kids," said Tesh. "We just put up the stand for them."

To close the worship session, Tesh sang his most recently recorded song, the unreleased "Rescue," which was also inspired by the recent disaster in South East Asia.

Afterwards, the crowd was treated to an exclusive extended preview and trailer of the upcoming Disney film "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe."

About John Tesh

Television host, recording artist, music director and syndicated radio show host - John Tesh has explored and succeeded in all of these facets of the entertainment industry. In a remarkably successful career that now spans more than 25 years, Tesh is known worldwide as a leading and respected figure in the entertainment and broadcasting industries. If you follow his career, it becomes obvious that music has always been Tesh?fs main passion. In 1996, after 10 years as co-host of "Entertainment Tonight," he surprised many by leaving the highly visible position to pursue his career as a fulltime musician. Tesh has long been an advocate for the power and encouragement found in worship music. With three gold albums and a career that includes six Emmys, two Grammy nominations. Tesh?fs radio show focuses on a concept he calls "Music and Intelligence For Your Life."

About Michael Card

In a career that spans 25 years, Michael Card has authored or co-authored 9 books, recorded over 20 albums, hosted two radio programs, written for a wide range of magazines including a medical journal and started his own magazine. And while he has garnered numerous accolades in the fields of publishing, music and broadcasting as well as sales figures that number in the millions, in talking with him you realize he is more likely to talk about other people?fs areas of accomplishment and expertise than he is his own, continually quoting those who have inspired, taught and encouraged him.

About Allen Asbury

In 2003, the title-cut from Asbury?fs debut, Somebody?fs Praying Me Through, was selected as the theme song for the National Day of Prayer and was heard on "Hannity and Colmes" and "CNN Headline News," as well as more than 200 top mainstream country radio stations. In total the album generated three Top 5 Inspirational singles and a busy schedule. Allen is currently preparing for the release of Stand with Doxology Records. Doxology president says, "His huge voice, his servant?fs heart, and those moving songs are the reasons that countless churches have so enthusiastically received him in the last few years."

About Rebecca St. James

Rebecca St. James is one of today?fs most loved and respected international Christian music artists. With diversity and depth, the Sydney, Australia, native has made the globe her mission field since debuting at the age of 16. She is a Grammy winner who quoted Scripture during her acceptance speech and writes compelling faith editorials and bestselling devotional books while away from the microphone. Campus Life Magazine says, "it has been said about her that her music is hip and innovative; however, it is her underlying commitment to Christ and her unabashed proclamation of God?fs love that particularly attracts the listener."

Justin Camacho
justin@breathecast.com