Learning to be Salt & Light
It was a charter bus full of exciting chatter, laughter and big plans as 41 preteens headed to camp two weeks ago!
It was a first-time camp experience for many of these 3rd-5th graders, and one full of incredible memories and new friends. Kids enjoyed summer fun with the excitement of bunk beds, a zip line, giant swing, canoeing, paddle boats, fishing, crafts, sports, games and swimming! But more importantly, kids were challenged personally as they discovered how to be "Salt & Light".
Each morning, a Bible lesson got kids thinking and meditating on God's truth and what it says about being salt and light. After a day full of summer fun activities, kids experienced worship and a message from Pastor John McLennan (ventriloquist) and his friend Chuck the Duck. Kids discovered that Jesus wants us all to be salt and light (deliverers of the good news of Jesus), and that we become saltier and brighter for Jesus when we continue to grow stronger in Him.
Each evening ended with a dorm devotional led by New Hope counselors. "The kids had so many questions about the Bible, God and Heaven. This is one of my favorite times because they start to feel comfortable enough to open up with what is on their minds," shared Kids Pastor, Cathy Smith. "I remember one of the questions so vividly: 'If you choose not to follow Jesus and go to Hell, do you get another chance?' In this world, children are given so many chances. I explained that no, there are no second chances after death, and that's why it's so important to give your life to Christ and choose Him as your Savior."
Kids returned raving about all the fun they had. "Mom! It seriously was the best camp ever!" shared one camper. Cathy took it all in. "Camp is the highlight of my summer because I see connections and memories made that last a lifetime." In addition to the memories and friendships, kids also discovered that becoming a follower of Jesus is only the beginning of what the Lord has planned for them.
