Camp is one of the most inspirational places I have been. I grew up going to El Camino Pines nearly every summer from about 3rd through 9th grade. My most memorable experience was confirmation camp, the summer after 8th grade. I went up with my youth group, and on the night of the last campfire a pastor gave an inspirational talk and asked us if we wanted to rededicate our lives to Christ. I was inspired by the pastor’s words and felt called to make this commitment. I received a black wristband, along with many other people who came up. I sat back down at the campfire, looked up at the stars and began to cry because I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit deep inside of me. I felt this overwhelming peace and understanding from within, and knew that God was carrying all of my struggles and that everything was going to be okay. I still wear that wristband today as a reminder that my life is dedicated to God. It is one of those moments that I will never forget. The theme verse of the week was Micah 6:8, which is, “He has shown thee, of people, what is good, and what the Lord requires of thee. But to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” This became one of my confirmation verses when I was confirmed the next fall.
About six years later I found myself working at camp as a counselor. This was my fourth summer working at camp, and this time as the staff in training program director. I trained high school students to become future counselors and leaders.
What can I say? We have a blast a camp. It is so much fun. We are a close-knit community of believers. The campers learn about God and grow in their faith and are able to simply be themselves. The counselors are fun and outgoing, and their energy is contagious. Camp is a place that inspires kids. It stirs in them a longing to pursue God in their lives and to pursue their faith in all circumstances. They learn how to love others who are different from them because every camper is unique. Camp is about acceptance of who we are as children of God, and I can’t think of a better place, than at camp, to learn about the one who created us all. The relationships built at camp are truly life lasting.
Also, kids do not get to spend enough time outdoors. They are inside for school, when they watch TV or play videogames, but at camp that all changes. We pursue and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. God’s creativity captures the kids when they step foot outside.
Here's just a quick story as I wrap up. There was a camper who at the beginning of the week, it was clear he did not want to be there. He was a high school football player, a “big, tough guy,” and he didn’t seem to want to talk about much when he arrived.” The week transformed him. We went white water rafting and I could see him open up and become vulnerable as he let down his guard. By the last day, he was telling everyone to keep in touch and that he would miss camp. This is just one story among many of how camp works in kids' lives. It has a lasting impact, as kids gain confidence and learn about discipleship. Camp has been a huge blessing in my life, and I see it bless so many kids.
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