Imagine the church as a place of belonging and connection – with each other and with God.
What a beautiful signpost of heaven!
Heather at North Park Community Church in London, ON organized two day camps for children this past summer.
As an imitator of Jesus, Heather wanted the children of North Park and their friends to know that they are loved by God and that there is a place for them within the church body.
God was gracious.
A young newcomer to Canada who spoke no English attended camp.
Heather prayerfully matched children with leaders for the week, trusting that God knew what was best.
So it was with great delight, Heather watched this child easily connect with his leader.
The other children found non-verbal ways to support him – helping him understand the games and joking around with him.
The camp experience helped this young child be better prepared for school in September.
It seemed like a grace of God.
Another camper had a hard time engaging.
The first week wasn’t a great week for her.
However, the persistent love of summer camp staff and the Spirit working all things out for good enabled this girl to thoroughly enjoy her second week of camp.
She played the games and interacted with others!
It seemed like a little miracle.
There was another child who looked like he was paying zero attention all week.
Then he surprised them all by raising his hand during discussion time and saying the requested Bible verse by heart.
Who knew?
God was working, despite the lack of visible proof.
Heather was also witness to the love and connection of Christian community.
One camper found a friend!
It was an answer to prayer..
The two young friends ran to each other, hugged, exchanged phone numbers.
The human desire for relationship was met and the unity of the body of Christ was right there.
God’s delight seemed evident.
Looking back, Heather’s reflection of the summer centred around the presence of God.
Amidst the busyness of summer day camp, she knew that God was with her and that God is the foundation of all that activity.
God is the One who created, loves, and sustains these campers.
And God continues to draw people to Himself.