Beach Camp, Baby!

It's been a few weeks, so I've had the chance to let it all sink in. I could write a novel about our time at camp, but in line with my favorite way to story-tell I'll defer to pictures...and let them do most of the "talking." We stayed and played on this beach: And made our home at this beloved retreat: We served alongside the two other summer interns, Austin and Kristin:The four of us were in charge of the "Morning Show" each day...and we brought our a-game. Skits, games, videos, and challenging lessons. We brought it, baby. :-) The best part? I got to live with these beauties for a week: Ashton, Caitlin, Kristin, Laura, Mallory, Rachel, Laura. I can't say enough about this group. They are the sweetest group of 10th graders I've ever met. They so desire more of Jesus, and it was a JOY to delve deep into Christ alongside them. They're pretty fun too: Rec. My team - the Violet Muckdogs. Our place - 2nd in overall rec. Somehow I don't think I played any part in that: Other important elements/mementos: Oh what a week! Christ showed up in a big, big way in the lives of our students. Decisions were made, 11 kids were baptized in the ocean. We were challenged, convicted, loved, and forgiven. Students organized accountability groups. Friends took friends aside who needed to hear the love of Jesus. Walls were broken down. Hearts were healed. Students were honest - with God, with themselves, with each other. Lots of very open discussion took place. There is a lot of hurt in the lives of our students. Let's face it - there's a lot of hurt everywhere. God assures us of that. We live in a broken, fallen world. But... Where there is hurt He gives hope. Where there is brokenness He heals. Where there is hardship, there we find Him. I hope and pray our students took home a piece of that amidst a lot of sand in their suitcase and some pretty intense sunburn. And I know they did. I know because when God's Word goes out it does not return empty. And I know because I have talked to enough students and witnessed enough in their lives to see a difference. Thanks, God. We love you.