Tuesday Night

Today started with many fears and hopes. The final total last night was 41, I had missed six people. We hoped they would bring their friends tonight. But, we could not really hold many more than we had last night. Our biggest hope was also our biggest fear. We divided up into three teams today. One group went to the Jacobsons to do yard work and try to get their car running. One group went into a neighborhood to invite people to come out to the VBS. Another group stayed at the church to get ready for tonight, and then they would go out and pass out invitations also. So it was with great excitement that we waited to get started tonight.

The word came down, they are here! The music begins and we started singing. Three people walk in. We keep singing and eventually two more come in. The program is getting into full swing and we have less than 15 total. Oh the disappointment starts to set in. But, that’s okay, many came late last night. They will be here before 7:30. We divide into the different groups and still no one else has come.

It is now 7:39 and a car pulls up and 4 youth walk in. Another car pulls in and 4 more enter the building. Six teenagers get out of another car. “Oh, I’m so sorry for being late”, one girl says as she enters the building and heads to the check in table. Paul is smiling so much that he really does look like Santa. Our hearts are soaring. 31 is the final count. The 3 year old little girl joins in with the other little ones as they play games and listen to the Bible story. The teens are screaming and laughing out side. Every one gathers for the closing exercise and listen to Chuck as he speaks. The heads are bowed and the eyes are closed. “Who wants to be on God’s team?” Chuck asks. One little hand goes up, then a second. Two little girls walk out of the room, and then, two new born little ladies walk back into the room. The night comes to an end, we turn off the lights, and head to the hotel to get ready to once again face the joys, sorrows, and victories which are before us.