It basically is a camp where kids learn about Jesus and see Jesus in action. Each day is very similar with activities such as devotion time with their huddle (group of campers comprised of boys and girls of many ages), singing (with motions), teaching/ message, games, swimming and of course 3 meals. It is a place where kids feel safe since putting down others in any way is not allowed- it is considered a dirty brick and to clean it up the person has to offer 3 complements and a hug/handshake. They can play games/sports knowing that they will not be made fun of and only receive encouragement. It is also safe since they experience and learn about the God of the universe in an environment where they can ask questions and be taken seriously.
With all that said, we had a great week at camp. Bethany had 4th-5th graders so her nights were interrupted with homesick and bladder weak girls. I had 7th-9th graders who cooperated a little better. When lights went out, they were quiet and fell asleep quickly. Each night we would discuss the teaching from that night and pray together and as the week progressed we were able to go deeper and pray for each other's needs. We were encouraged and challenged by the teachings and by the kids themselves. At the end of the week campers had the opportunity to share and many shared difficult things about their home/school life and how camp is a breath of fresh where they feel loved and accepted by everyone and by the Lord Jesus. Our hearts broke for what these kids have to deal with, but we pray that God is their refuge and through the suffering and trials they are drawn closer to Jesus.
Most would agree that kids these days seem to be experiencing harder things at younger ages (divorce, abuse, violence). But from what we can see we are not equipping them with the truth at younger ages. Sunday School bible stories that come across as fairy tales don't cut it; kids like adults need the truth of the gospel to cling to and rely on. At a place like Summer Games kids experience what the Church should be like, but in the world we, as the church, have fallen short of discipling and mentoring kids on a consistent basis. The Lord opened our eyes to this need so we're praying to see how we can help fill that gap.
To conclude, it was a blessing to be a part of Summer Games and we consider it a privilege to serve in that way as we are able to take the focus off of ourselves for a week. We pray that Summer Games continues for the sake of all the kids who come to know Jesus there and experience His love.
With all that said, we had a great week at camp. Bethany had 4th-5th graders so her nights were interrupted with homesick and bladder weak girls. I had 7th-9th graders who cooperated a little better. When lights went out, they were quiet and fell asleep quickly. Each night we would discuss the teaching from that night and pray together and as the week progressed we were able to go deeper and pray for each other's needs. We were encouraged and challenged by the teachings and by the kids themselves. At the end of the week campers had the opportunity to share and many shared difficult things about their home/school life and how camp is a breath of fresh where they feel loved and accepted by everyone and by the Lord Jesus. Our hearts broke for what these kids have to deal with, but we pray that God is their refuge and through the suffering and trials they are drawn closer to Jesus.
Most would agree that kids these days seem to be experiencing harder things at younger ages (divorce, abuse, violence). But from what we can see we are not equipping them with the truth at younger ages. Sunday School bible stories that come across as fairy tales don't cut it; kids like adults need the truth of the gospel to cling to and rely on. At a place like Summer Games kids experience what the Church should be like, but in the world we, as the church, have fallen short of discipling and mentoring kids on a consistent basis. The Lord opened our eyes to this need so we're praying to see how we can help fill that gap.
To conclude, it was a blessing to be a part of Summer Games and we consider it a privilege to serve in that way as we are able to take the focus off of ourselves for a week. We pray that Summer Games continues for the sake of all the kids who come to know Jesus there and experience His love.
No comments:
Post a Comment