Since I’m new in this role, I thought I’d just write a quick update about what’s going on here at Youthfront Camp South.

This week has been amazing so far with a host of different elements at play. I’m amazed to see how everything works in concert and how every element of camp from the teen staff program to the water slide, the evening experiences to the lines in the Snack Shack, the picnic table conversations to the craziness of Ancient Egypt.

I know it is pretty obvious that camp is such an extensive group effort, but it is truly amazing if you stop to think through the intricacies of how everything works together. Really what I’m saying is that God is doing beautiful work in this place, and He is all around us, moving through us, behind us, and before us, somehow knitting everything together for good.

Tonight campers experienced the parable of the Good Samaritan in a way where they identified places of wounding in their own lives and also received healing words from cabin leaders that Christ is able to enter into our suffering and we as children of God are loved and valued. It was so powerful to see and hear so many young people identify brokenness in their lives. It was too much to bear. It was also amazing to hear some of these people point to God in the midst of their suffering, believing that He is able to restore and redeem the worst of circumstances.

For every one person who spoke up in the response gathering I am betting there’s 2 or 3 others that have shared in smaller settings and even more that will engage in deep and thoughtful conversation this week. I heard a story today about a girl who, after being here for a couple days, decided that the way of Jesus, and following him, was what she wanted for her life. She made a decision to follow Jesus today.

To say the least, I am quite humbled. This environment is made possible by every single person working at Youthfront. Certainly many of us are working long hours in an office, while others are starting new projects this summer, and still others are neck deep in the highly demanding summer rhythm of youth ministry. And don’t forget to go ahead and multiply by 3 because of what is also happening this summer at Youthfront Camp West and in Croc Mexico. I wish there was a way for all of us to glimpse the joy, sorrow, and fulfillment of being in these places this summer.

I am humbled to be invited to participate in this. Jessica and I are certainly enjoying the time here, and we’re trying to find creative ways to hang out together. Little by little it feels like we’re getting the hang of this place and adjusting the rhythms of camp. Please pray for us as we look forward to nine more weeks of sharing life with people at Youthfront Camp South.