Vacation times are a great opportunity for God’s people to become involved in the community. Are you prepared to give up some of your vacation time, perhaps one week, to reach others with the gospel?
Each year in January in two areas of Sydney, a mission known as The Green Tent operates. The Green Tent provides a service certainly for working parents who can safely leave children in supervised care. But more importantly the aim of those from the churches involved is to present children with the gospel message in a fun and varied atmosphere that includes bible stories, games, drama, singing, and craft activities.
The Green Tent at Turramurra is into its 8th year and at Gordon in its 5th year. Such is the positive reputation of The Green Tent that this year at Turrumurra leaders had parents pleading with them to take their children. But still some had to be turned away, as they simply could not accommodate all those wishing to attend. The number of children between kindergarten and year 6 is 320 this year and that is at Turramurra alone. Numbers are similar at the other Green Tent venue. That’s a lot of children and families who might never have heard about Jesus and God’s love any other time or any other way. It provides a marvelous opportunity to reach out to those who perhaps don’t come to church and Sunday school.
Some years back, when I lived in Sydney, I was involved in the first Windana vacation mission. It was hard work for the leaders involved but it was also a lot of fun and a great opportunity to share Jesus with others. The Windana mission was operated by several churches and denominations in the Toongabbie/Seven Hills area.
Maybe such an event could be staged in your area. All it needs is for God to plant the idea in one person’s mind. With passion and enthusiasm that ripple effect will reach out and draw others in and start a work that will further the spread of His kingdom. Is this something God is calling you to consider? Any journey begins with the first step. Will you step out this year for God?
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