Tuesday night – church service for 35,000

Tonight was a phenomenal and uplifting night. It was the closest that we’ve been to the mountain top for this event. We pray that we reach the top tomorrow on our last day.

We enjoyed a church service with over 35,000 people in attendance. The evening started with contemporary songs. Then the drama of Good Friday was played out … there wasn’t a dry eye in the house, including all of us. The portrayal of Jesus being beaten, then nailed to the cross was painful to watch. Three witnesses in the portrayal spread blood on his body to signify their sins that contributed to Jesus’ death. It was really dramatic and emotional.

After this, we saw the portrayal of the burial, then of the resurrection. The celebration included a huge choir from Concordia University in Nebraska, a symphony from Orlando, and interpretive ballet dancers. The only thing missing was fireworks.

The service continued in its normal way, just like Immanuel’s. When the time arrived for communion, over 150 ministers distributed the bread and wine. It was a very efficient operation. We sang the traditional hymns, though it was far from normal. The choir and symphony were so uplifting.

As the service concluded, we all felt refreshed, exhilarated, and ready to take on the world … or at least take on the pool, followed by our nightly group study. As we hit the bed tonight, I assure you that all of us have grown up more in Christ and in our faith.

We can’t wait to see our family and friends. You will receive us in exhausted and tired states, but you can be sure that we are revived in Jesus.