I’ll come right out with it.  Here’s my full disclosure. I work for DurhamCares.  So, perhaps you may see me as a little biased, and maybe I am.  Regardless of that though,  I really do think you should be at the DPAC on May 4th for a benefit we’re hosting for our partners and that includes Tim Keller.  I’ve read and enjoyed a couple of Dr. Keller’s books, so I know I will enjoy hearing him speak.  But, I’m also of the generation that would need 380 days in a year to attend all the events we’re invited to, and a high six-figure salary to say “yes” to every solicitation of support. Okay, that may be a slight exaggeration, but my point is that, I understand your question:  “Why should I pay $35 to hear a sermon - couldn’t I just download it?”  You’re not the only person asking that question. So, to help with the answer, here are my top 5 reasons to come to the DPAC on May 4th, with a bonus 6th reason if you’re still not convinced:

• You’ll be gathering with Durham community leaders and people from more than 30 local churches.
  Think about it….how long has it been since that happened in Durham?  We’ve been asking, and the common consensus seems to be “too long”.  Right now a special volunteer is putting together some music for May 4th featuring member of close to 10 different local church choirs!  As one local pastor summarized it, “There may be legitimate reasons why we don’t do this every Sunday, but occasionally it can be powerful to demonstrate what we all agree on.”
• You will be able to connect to what’s going on in Durham and to others who share your passion.
  Are you interested in doing something in Durham, but aren’t sure where to start?  Are you wondering what your next step might be to get more involved?  Come to find out.  This event isn’t designed for you to walk out the door, whip out your to-do list, and check off the box titled “Love Neighbor”.  It’s the connecting point that launches you deeper in.
• You’ll have a chance to ask Dr. Keller questions….specifically about your community. 
  May 4th won’t be just a sermon in 3D by Dr. Keller.  It will be about you.  About your neighbor.  About Durham.  Sure, a part of the night will be the keynote address, but during the speaking you will be able to submit your questions for a special Q&A time with Dr. Keller.
• You probably have a friend who would really benefit from hearing about how God feels about our city. 
  And maybe this friend wouldn’t go if you didn’t bring him or her.  We love hearing stories of people who are planning dinner for their friends at their house so they can bring them to the DPAC, or buying extra tickets to give to friends who really couldn’t afford to come.
• Your tickets will support local organizations that do excellent work in serving the neediest families in some of the toughest places in Duham. 
  This isn’t the whole point of the evening, but it’s an important point:  none of the money you spend to come to the DPAC will go to DurhamCares.  Not even a penny.  It will all go to cover the cost of the event and to the 29 Durham organizations we’ve worked hard to vet so that you can feel comfortable that your dollar goes to help folks that need it in our city.
• What else were you going to use that $35 for?
  Ok, so this last one is more of a question than a reason.  But seriously….what?  A nice dinner?  A new pair of shoes?  12 new apps for your iPhone?  There are lots of perfectly legitimate things competing for your $35, but consider - just consider - whether one of them could wait until next month.  You may decide it’s worth it, or you may decide it’s not.  But just consider it.

Ready to not miss this?  It’s 7:30, May 4th at the Durham Performing Arts Center in Durham.  Get your tickets today!

Already know you’ll be there?  Tell us why!  What’s your reason for making this a don’t miss event on your calendar?