Wow. I’m still processing the incredible audiovisual feast that I had the amazing privilege of experiencing a couple of nights ago with 79 000+ people at Cape Town Stadium. I’ve been a U2 fan for a long time, and who wouldn’t admire Bono for his tireless social activism, but I now have a totally revised impression of the man and an even deeper respect for how he’s carrying out his mission. Tim Elmore, in his workbook “A Life of Influence,” lists 6 things a person’s life purpose should include: 1. Begin with God’s priorities; 2. Revolve around your identity; 3. Include others; 4. Be bigger than yourself; 5. Contain life-changing convictions; 6. Have eternal value. Bono seems to have managed to incorporate these all rather well as he lives life on purpose. He’s a rock star who is using his privileged position to raise awareness (not to mention money) for causes we should all be fighting for: setting captives free (with a special tribute to Aung San Suu Kyi who was recently released in Burma after being a political prisoner for 10 years), bringing health and hope to those with HIV, eradicating malaria, and “making poverty history” in practical ways (getting petitions signed to assist poor working women in South Africa who have no way of accessing health care). The band has spent a huge amount of money putting their show together, but by spending that money and putting on an absolutely excellent performance they are able to raise even more money for these and other causes. Aside from the worthiness of their campaigns and their sheer brilliance as artists, I have to say that I was also impressed by their graciousness and humility. I did not expect Bono to come across as humble, but he did. He seemed comfortable representing Christ, and he openly praised God. A U2 concert is not a worship experience like a Delirious concert is, but Bono is not shy about acknowledging the source of his gift, and “Magnificent” is indeed an offering. To anyone reading this, if you ever have the opportunity to attend the U2 360 Tour, do it. You won’t regret it.