Repentance and Relationships

We had well over 200 people show up last night. When you throw in the life group leaders and the food team, there were more people at 531 last night than ever before. It was exciting because for the most part, it was relationships at work. I can only think of a few people who just "showed up" and didn't know anyone. A life group leader or another student had invested in almost everyone, at some point. We had so many schools represented and it seems as though our students lay all the divisions aside on Sunday Night. It amazes me.
Growing up around church, I have seen my fair share of, come to the front, pray a prayer, sign a card, and you’re in. I have heard more than one emotional message and watched dozens of students walk an aisle and then have nothing changed. It is almost like a three-step process and then "poof," magic. We take names; write them down, and up the score. I have little or no tolerance for a manufactured night of emotion. Praise God, last night was different.
Last night, I saw something different in the eyes of some of the students. I saw something that I have not seen in a long time.... REPENTANCE. That word is the foundation of our salvation. Nothing happens without repentance. Oh to watch God lead someone to repentance...it will ruin you for anything less than authentic. You can't manufacture repentance, it is broken, it is uncomfortable, it is embarrassing, it is exposing. . I know that God was at work last night on multiple levels revealing himself in Truth.
God showed up last night and I think I know why. First, he was about making himself known and doing things that only he can get credit for. Secondly, are the relationships that have been cultivated for so long. God honors his people pouring out to others. He loves it...it is the Great Commission. Last is prayer. I asked the alumni and life group leaders to pray last week. God honors the prayer of his people.
The truth is that I don't know what will come of last night. Time will reveal the hearts that were changed. I can't wait to see what God is going to do next. We'll I have to go...relationships have to be made! You go to! You live! You Be!