The Angels Rejoiced

 Last night was chaotic even more so than on a normal Wednesday night around here. We scheduled Nerf Night for our Creek Kids and Creek Student Ministries. Nerf darts and balls were whizzing all over the gym. Before I got to watch those festivities, I taught our adults. I teach adults first and then go teach our students. 

Let's just say that some took Nerf Night to the next level. They brought in high powered weaponry with ample ammunition. Those Nerf darts and balls filled the air. Participants ducked behind tables turned over sideways to provide barriers of protection. Some adopted the hunker and wait mentality while others took a more offensive approach. People laughed. They ran for cover. Some were ambushed and forced to retreat being overpowered. This is an annual event for Spring Creek. We had multiple visitors last night. 

Because Nerf Night took longer than expected, I knew our Bible study time would have to be shortened for our students. I planned to present the gospel and offer an invitation for people to get saved. I told those students they were in two groups. One group lost in their sins. The other group saved because of the sacrifice of Jesus and asking for His redemption. It was noisy. The students were jazzed up because of Nerf Night. It took a bit to get them focused. 

When we got into the heart of the message, they were attentive. All in. I did not employ high pressured tactics at the end. I told the students if they wanted to talk to me afterward, I would stick around. They all sprinted for the exit. All except one young man. He lingered and asked, "Can I talk to you?" 

When I asked what he wanted to talk about he wasted no time telling me he was a sinner and wanted to be forgiven. He did not know what he needed to do. We went through the Roman Road of Romans 3:23, 3:10-13, 6:23, and 5:8. He was ready. We bowed in prayer asking Jesus to save him and he repented of his sins. When we looked up the angels were rejoicing. [Luke 15:7] Jesus saved him! Hallelujah!

It was all worth it. Setting up the table barriers. Studying for the message. Planning and hyping Nerf Night. Trying to quieten a room of hyperactive students. Dodging Nerf projectiles everywhere. All worth it so that God could transfer another soul from the kingdom of darkness to His kingdom of light. Hell lost another one and Heaven gained a new citizen. I imagine the angels are still exuberant. I am still amazed at the power of the gospel to lead people to Jesus for salvation. I rejoice with those angels.