Life without an eternal perspective trades living for longing, exchanges happiness for hurriedness, and gives up rest for restlessness. When this life is all that we’ve got going for us, we’re forced to grab all the gusto we can. As fast as we can.
Tim Kimmel, Little House on the Freeway
A Slice of Fresh Bread
While traveling I like to send post cards to family and friends back home. There is not much room on the back of the card so I try to capture a few reflections and express my feelings for the recipient. The limits force me to the main issue and help me focus on what is important.
In the last chapter of Paul’s last book he get to the point, Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage–with great patience and careful instruction. (2 Timothy 4:2) He continues to give Timothy the information that is critical for ministry when he says, But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5)
Deadlines help us focus. And as time became scarce, Paul’s priorities for Timothy came to the surface. Focus on God’s Word. Apply its truth to the specific needs of those you meet. Stay calm. Keep on ministering no matter the obstacles.
Good advice for Timothy and good advice for all of us who serve God in Christian camping. Are we following Paul’s direction? Keep God’s Word central to your ministry and look for ways to apply its truth to the unique needs of your campers and guests. Keep your cool when problems arise. Obstacles are part of life, endure them and keep going.
And send a post card of truth on to a friend or co-worker who needs some pointed encouragement and direction as well.
Prayer Requests
- Camps in Azerbaijan are facing the possibility of repressive legislation directed at limiting their work and effectiveness. Please pray that these laws will not be enacted and that the camping ministry in Azerbaijan will grow despite these obstacles.
- Christian camping leaders in Uzbekistan continues to face significant legal challenges to their work. Please pray for their protection and for the courage to continue to share the gospel and to serve God through Christian camping.
- 340 Christian camping leaders from Ukraine and several other surrounding countries met last week near Kiev. Please pray that the information shared and the relationships established would produce effective ministry for years to come.
- Many camps in the northern hemisphere are beginning to select staff members for this summer. Please pray for wisdom and insight in the selection process.
- CCI-Russia and CCI-Philippines have training conferences in the next few weeks. Please pray for good attendance, effective training and community building during these events.
- Plans are being made for the annual CCI-Worldwide Board meeting in Panama this April. Please pray for wisdom and preparation for this strategic meeting.