Camp Whatever ’09

For the 23rd summer, I am at camp. Church camp has been a significant experience in my life for decades. It was the catalyst for me in becoming a Christ-follower. It has spurred my growth in Christ over the years. I have been able to experience some of most stretching leadership and servant opportunities at camp as well. I love it!

This week is our 5th year of Camp Whatever at LifePoint. When we created Camp Whatever five years ago, the driving vision was to have an environment where kids could separate from the world (their daily routine, habits, distractions, pains, etc.) for a week and separate themselves unto to God. A week where they can hear the gospel; hear from the Lord in worship services, quiet times, break-outs & etc.; and experience the Body of Christ being the Body of Christ.

Reflecting on the incredible growth (year 1 – 170 students, year 5 – 425 students) of Camp Whatever and the huge impact it has had in the lives of students, families, and LifePoint, I am reminded that the success of camp rises and falls on the incredible job our camp counselors do each year. They have a challenging task but eternally significant. They are the one’s on the frontlines building relationships, leading God conversations, counseling, and simply being the Body of Christ…His hands and feet helping students to be loved, cared for, held accountable, and encouraged. Yes, we have incredible worship, a great speaker, the sets look great, rec is fantastic, late nights are fun, the staff is leading superbly…but the success of camp rises and falls on the focus and ministry of the camp counselors. We are blessed to have so many adults who are pouring themselves out as an offering this week. And, many of them having taken vacation time to be here!

Simply, Camp is the best week of the year!