Are they really listening??

Wyldlife camp felt different this year.

Around 120 middle schoolers came from all over the island to have fun and hear the Gospel, and I was in charge of 12 six and seventh grade boys from Doulos (yes, far too many 6-7 jokes were made).

I remember being incredibly stressed out my two previous years at camp. Nervousness that my kids would do something stupid (or foolish, I should say) or get themselves hurt plagued me the last two times. I had watched them like a hawk and had given them very little freedom. I guessed I had been a bit of a helicopter cabin leader.

This past month however, I didn't feel the same way. I figured they might make some unwise decisions (and they did), or get hurt a little (they actually didn't!!), and I would walk alongside them rather than micromanage. I decided that instead of controlling them, I wanted to understand them. And what I found really surprised me.

Underneath all of their silliness and foolishness, they're actually listening. And they're getting it. See, Doulos is a Christian school. Our students hear and see the Gospel lived out constantly. Yet sometimes it feels like all of it is falling on deaf ears and stone cold hearts. Why do they still misbehave?? Why do they still doubt?? Well... why do I?

There were four talks over the weekend, and four "cabin time" reflections as a group. Throughout these reflection times, my kiddos shared the Gospel with me. They knew it. And, taking them at their word, they believed it in their own special way. They told me about how they saw themselves, and who they believed they were—sinners covered by the grace of God. They each told me in their own words that they needed God to live, to do what's right, and to be saved.

I was honestly blown away, and a little ashamed. I learned that weekend not to think lowly of my students. For many of them they don't need evangelism anymore, they need discipleship. Pray for creativity as I look for ways to connect with these guys and help them grow in their relationships with Christ.

February Highlights

So there ya go...

My February was delightfully busy and wonderfully restful. The best part is that God was good in every moment.

My Question for You!

Ever seen whales before?