Oh, the end is near. It’s bittersweet, at least in my opinion.
Redemption Ranch VBS at NHCOC 2024 ends tonight. We have had an amazing week, and I am so thankful for all the souls who came through our doors these last several nights. VBS makes a difference. It gives us all a shot in the arm, reminding us of our mission. We want to reach as many souls as possible; timing is crucial.
Our VBS has always been planned months in advance; this year was no exception. The curriculum was chosen early in the winter months of 2024. Teachers were being recruited months ago. Crafters, walkers, and all the volunteers have been recruited over several weeks. Decorations began days ago, and construction finished over a week ago. Bible class lessons were prepared, and everything was laid out in order and with much organization.
The week of VBS goes very fast. There is so much excitement, encouragement, love, and joy (deep down in my heart). Sunday morning was amazing, with a bible class lesson to kick us off on the Talents. We worshiped, learned about God’s redemption plan, and even had a baptism. Sunday night, kids and parents lined up out the door. Monday comes with more wonderful attitudes, ready to learn and love. Tuesday comes, and it’s the home stretch with the biggest attendance we’ve had all week and the most we’ve ever had on a Tuesday night of VBS (413). I’m sure we will have record-breaking attendance tonight, and I will probably end up in a dunk tank. All for the Lord. I told you from the very beginning of the year. LET’S DO MORE FOR THE LORD IN 2024 THAN EVER BEFORE! You’ve met the challenge.
But our work doesn’t end with the conclusion of VBS. We have a crucial task ahead of us, and it’s more than just tearing down decorations and setting things back in order. We have souls who visited with us this week, and your role in the follow-up process is vital. We will have a list with names and addresses, and they need to be contacted again. Your words of thanks and encouragement could be the catalyst that brings them back to worship with us, to give their lives over to Him, and to serve the Lord. Your efforts will help us bring more people into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
VBS is more than just decorations, silly songs, and cookies. It’s about souls, and we are determined to reach them with the love of the Lord!
It’s bittersweet that VBS is almost over, but it’s also very exciting to see how the Lord will us for His glory and the souls saved through these efforts.
Come tonight for the last night.
For the Lord,
Alex Mills
Youth & Family Involvement Minister
