A Divine Call to the Streets
In 1958, Pastor David Wilkerson from rural Pennsylvania felt a divine call to head to the bustling streets of New York City. He was moved by a haunting image in *Life* magazine of seven young gang members on trial for murder. Wilkerson recounted seeing "a look of bewilderment, hatred, and despair" in their eyes, which compelled him to "go to New York and help those boys." Despite being ejected from the courtroom during his initial attempt to reach out, Wilkerson was undeterred.
Teen Challenge Begins
Determined to bring hope to these troubled youths, he founded Teen Challenge, a ministry focused on helping drug addicts and gang members. With unwavering love and persistence, Wilkerson organized street rallies and preached on gang turf, sharing the message of Jesus Christ.
Nicky Cruz Encounters Love
Among those who heard Wilkerson's message was Nicky Cruz, a feared warlord of the notorious Mau Maus gang. Born in Puerto Rico and raised amidst witchcraft and abuse, Cruz had a violent past. When Wilkerson first approached him, declaring that "Jesus loved him and would never stop loving him," Cruz reacted with threats and violence. Yet, Wilkerson's relentless love began to chip away at Cruz's hardened heart. During a powerful evangelistic meeting organized by Wilkerson, Cruz experienced a profound conviction. He later described feeling guilty for his past actions. In a moment of surrender, Cruz prayed for forgiveness, experiencing what he likened to being admitted to a 'Holy Ghost hospital.' He felt as if Jesus opened his chest, kissed his heart, and placed a transformed heart back inside.
A Worldwide Movement
The transformation was immediate and undeniable. Cruz and other converted gang members turned in their weapons to the police. Cruz went on to study at a Bible college, became a preacher, and returned to his old neighborhood, converting many of his former gang members. He worked alongside Teen Challenge and later founded the Nicky Cruz Outreach. Wilkerson's obedience to God's call not only transformed Cruz's life but also led to the global expansion of Teen Challenge, impacting countless lives. Through divine intervention, what began as a call to help seven boys burgeoned into a worldwide movement of hope and redemption.
