"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about then when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” - Deuteronomy 6:4-7
When Moses’ life was coming to a close he gave instructions for the Children of Israel to follow. He was concerned about how they would follow through on the commandments the Lord had given them at Sinai after he was no longer with them. We know they did have some problems and they were carried off into captivity because of their disobedience.
Our children need this reminder too. There is so much stuff to keep their focus away from God, so much that doesn’t lift their eyes to him and his leading. We are in Japan this week and have been seeing the use of cell phones, ipods and electronic gear as we ride the trains. And it isn’t just the young people, it is old and young. So, it is not only the USA that has this issue, it is everywhere.
Camp is a place where kids can get away from all those distractions, from things that are okay in and of themselves but don’t help them see their need for closeness with the Lord, their God. Wyoba asks that kids not bring cell phones, ipods, or electronic games, because they are in the beautiful setting away from the world. Dr. Van Ostran was right on when he reminded us that Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to “recharge his batteries” so to speak. The cabin leaders also need this time to experience that closeness with the Lord and help the young people on their quest for the peace of God.
As your young people make their plans for the summer, guide them to one of the camps: Front Range, Wyoba or Grand Mesa. This will be a highlight of their lives and will help them on their way to a greater understanding of their relationship with God. They will meet other young people who will be friends for life and able to share this glorious experience.
Prayer: Lord, God of all Creation! Be with each of our camps (campers, directors, cabin leaders, cooks, administrators, maintenance folk and volunteers) and show them you are with them every step of the way. Keep their focus on you and help them keep that focus even when they are at home after the camp experience. In Jesus name, Amen
Deanna Dyer
Wyoba Board Chairman |
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