by Sherilyn David
Lives transformed. Lives changed. Relationships renewed, restored and reconciled. This year’s family camp truly spoke to the hearts of the GSCC family especially the young adults and the youth. We came to the camp hungry for God’s words and excited for what He had in store for us. God knew exactly what he was going to do and at camp it was evident among the J-YA and J-Youth who, day in and day out whether at school, at work or with friends face trials and temptations .
One of the turning points of the three-day camp was the water baptism. We were witnesses to the young people who decided to dedicate themselves to God and proclaim that He is Lord of their lives. At church we see each other every Thursday, Friday and Sunday, but at the water baptism, we saw these lives in brand new light. On his own, each one made a decision to dedicate his life to God.
The personal choice these young people made was the best choice of their lives. It was truly a privilege to have witnessed that occasion, yet it was simply difficult to put that powerful moment into words.
Challenge Night capped the third day’s activities at camp. As the campfire burned and campers began to gather, we could already feel God moving among us. Momentarily, our pastors stood in our midst and issued us a challenge to get rid of our “good enough” mentality and strive more for God. At first silence greeted the challenge, but at this very moment the Holy Spirit filled our hearts. Touched by His love, we found the courage to take the challenge. It was time to take a stand and promise to stop giving God what was “good enough” but to give more of what He deserves. Moving like one, the campers took turns to throw sticks into the bonfire signifying that they were throwing away their sins and old sinful ways. And one by one, the youth solemnly approached the pastors who fervently prayed for each of them .
How awesome it was to witness young people being drawn to God. Not only were they drawn closer to Him but relationships with their families were also renewed. Families and friends locked in tearful embrace savoring that moment of oneness with God. That precise night, J-YA and J-Youth tightened their bond with one another as a second family committed to the service of the Lord.
