I have had the privilege of spending countless days at Camp Wapo over the years. It has been a joy to experience hours of campfires, field games, chapel times, and skits. All range from the silly to the ridiculous, and also from the poignant to the profound. This morning the counselors presented the story of the Good Samaritan in a wordless, contemporary skit. Jesus’ words, “Go and do likewise” came alive. Today’s focus, as part of the week’s broader theme of running the race of faith God sets before us, is running the race through the care of our neighbors.
Each summer, campers and counselors express, explore, exclaim, and examine their faith, wherever each finds him or herself in this walk with Jesus. The years change, the specifics of camp schedules evolve, and yet, there are so many constants. One is the incredible faith maturity that many of the counselors reveal through their actions and their devotion. Their schedule is demanding, the mix of campers they meet is wide and complex, their pay is less than they’d earn in most summer jobs, and their lodging is, well, not the most comfortable bed in the world. And yet, the joy of the Lord is so evident in their smiles, their playing, their singing, and their leading. They love God and love kids. Each would tell you how much he or she has grown through life as a camp counselor, as their chosen way to serve Christ. It is such a powerful testament to these words from Luke 22—I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Each day, these young people are impacting what lies ahead, by ‘turning back’ to help those younger than they, those who are coming along behind them on this journey of faith. And their powerful witness is a striking reminder that it is in serving that we receive and we learn. We give and we grow.
By: Sarah Storvick
Minister of Congregational Life
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