Sophomore Slump? Not Necessary!

Years ago I made may living as a professional entertainer (actor/singer-type) before I got in the rock and roll business full-time.  I did over 2000 performances in one particular theatre over a period of several years.  Each show would run about 8 weeks, and then we'd rehearse during the day to get ready to open a new show.  We'd all work our butts off to the point of exhaustion for Opening Night.  

It was always exhilarating.  The theatre would be buzzing with the electricity of excited theatre-goers anxious for the curtain to come up.  The Opening Night crowd was always so supportive, and after all the hard work that went into preparing, it was always a rush to do the first show. A large celebration always followed during which everyone would receive kudos and props for all their hard work and solid performances.  Then we'd have to do it all again the next night. 

The Second Night almost always flopped.  People were worn out.  All the big first night supporters went back to where they came from.  But we still had to go out there and do it for all we were worth.  It just seemed that the second night always fell far short of opening night.

Well, Crossroads ain't showbiz (thank God for that), but many of the same principles apply. We launched strong with 172.  Frankly, I don't expect those numbers for our second service, as at least 30 of them came from other churches. But I do believe that there are some practical things we can do to avoid the "second night slump".

First - this week - call all the people you invited the first week who didn't show up and invite them again.  Then call all the people you invited who did show up, and ask them what they thought, and invite them to come back.  Let's be even more dedicated to the idea of compelling folks to come then we were for launch.  That'll help in a big, big way.

Second, get some rest.  And after you have rested, commit yourself to elevate the level of your personal performance this coming weekend.  Whether you were tasked with sweeping, stacking, putting up platforms, making coffee, singing, working with children, running sound, hanging signs, or any of a hundred other jobs that got done - your personal commitment to excellence will have a MAJOR impact on what happens at Crossroads this weekend.

Third...pray.  Pray for God's help to reach the people He has called us to reach.  Pray that our efforts to compel others bear great fruit for the kingdom of God.  

Guys, I have personally set my faith on having an opportunity to minister to at least 130 people on Sunday, as we start our new series!  Pray and believe God with me!