He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:24 ESV)
As I write this, it is the day after the arts camp. We had an amazing week together last week. Today, I still have plenty of thank you’s to write and borrowed items to return, but for I am taking a day to rest and savor memories from this week.
The writer of Luke tells us that after Jesus’s birth, “Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19 NASB)
Physically and emotionally, I’m tired—it takes a tremendous amount of energy to create a meaningful experience for 76 campers and over 45 volunteers across five full days, all culminating in a fast-paced program for 200 people.
And yet, my heart is full. I’m overwhelmed with joy at what God did through this camp. Honestly, I feel like I could write 100 blog posts praising God for the countless ways he met both campers and volunteers right where they were—revealing himself in love, grace, majesty, and blessing.
But today, I’m choosing something simpler.
I just want to savor. To ponder. To treasure it all in my heart.
Today I remember laughter at the right places in drama skits.
Today I remember the beautiful faces of dancers during “I Speak Jesus.”
Today I remember a lovely and encouraging text sent from a 17-year-old.
Today I remember many friendships made and renewed at camp.
Today I remember glass vessels filled with symbols from our devotions this week.
Today I remember the emotional gasp at the end of “Still Her Little Child,” when Jesus was crucified.
Today, I remember the kids who rose to the occasion and took on leadership roles they didn’t expect—and did an outstanding job.
Today I remember a group of six young adults who, having never worked together, produced the final program with joy.
Today I remember the sacrifices volunteers made – giving up work, family time, and sleep – to serve the campers.
Today I remember an 80-year-old volunteer at camp for the first time, smiling and enjoying the week.
Today, I remember the volunteers who stepped up to lead projects with the kids, worked behind the scenes, and did whatever was needed to make everything run smoothly.
Today, I remember tearful volunteers who were deeply moved as they prayed for the campers during our consecration time.
Today I remember the afternoon I sat down with my laptop and wrote down all God was giving me for what became this camp. I remember his faithfulness in providing a host church and all its support, the finances, the volunteers, the campers, and the SPIRIT for the camp. I remember his faithfulness in helping me have the time, energy, and ideas I needed for this particular group of campers.
Today I savor, ponder, and treasure all these things in my heart.
Thank you, God, for the wondrous and beautiful things you put in our lives. Thank you for challenging plans and goals, for provision, for energy, and for creativity. Thank you for your faithfulness in all places and times. AMEN.