Some 3,400 people covered the grounds of the Champlain Valley Exposition in Burlington, Vermont, Tuesday night, for the second of seven Decision America Northeast Tour prayer events with Franklin Graham. An increasingly secular region, many Christians in the area have been praying for God's intervention on behalf of friends, family, neighbors and lawmakers who don't know Jesus. "Let's pray that God would get a hold of Vermont," Franklin said.
Attendees were greeted by smiling volunteers ready to point them in the direction of a good place to sit or simply answer any questions they might have.
The excitement surrounding the Northeast tour was evident as many came in large groups or met up with friends once they arrived. Several members of Ignite Church chose to wear their shirt to represent.
Protestors held signs and flags at the entrance of the Champlain Valley Exposition. Though some may not agree with Franklin Graham's message, he explained it's not about what he says—"This is what God says."
The cool, windy weather didn't keep people away. As the night progressed, chairs spilled over into the walkways and picnic area at the Champlain Valley Expo. The venue is home to the Champlain Valley Fair and also hosts concerts and other popular events throughout the year.
Dennis Agajanian's fast guitar picking was a surefire way to keep his hands warm during Tuesday night's brisk weather in Burlington.
Crowder and his band "took the crowd to church" by singing a few hymns before Franklin came on stage. It was a powerful moment that led many to lift their hands and voices in worship to God.
Preaching from Luke 18, Franklin talked about Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector who didn’t let his short stature get in the way of him meeting Jesus. “Zacchaeus wanted to come to Christ. He wanted to see Jesus. You can, too,” Franklin said.
These two little ladies showed off their free Decision America T-shirts, which are available at each stop of the tour along with free copies of Decision magazine.
“Why Jesus?” Franklin asked, “Because He’s the only one who can save you.”
A Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (RRT) chaplain chats with police officers assisting with the event. RRT recently launched its National Law Enforcement Ministry, and many of the crisis-trained chaplains were once law enforcement officers themselves.
After sharing the Gospel, Franklin gave attendees a chance to choose to follow Jesus. "Just stand," he said, assuring them that God would honor their public decision. Many did stand, and some made a new friend in the process—connecting with a prayer volunteer who would explain more about the decision they just made and keep them in prayer.
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” —John 13:34-35 (ESV)
With the sun setting behind them, those listening to Franklin's message were faced with some of life's most important questions. “Where are you before God? How does He see you? Are you forgiven?" Franklin asked the crowd. "If you were to die tonight, would He welcome you or will He reject you?” >> Be sure of your answer to these questions.
The Decision America Northeast Tour rolls on to Manchester, New Hampshire, where the next prayer event will be held Thursday at Gill Stadium. New Hampshire is another state topping the list of the most Godless states in America. Please join in praying that despite this fact, many will come to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.
