We just finished day 2 of our camp program with kids from the south of the country. The team is doing an amazing job giving their all to the kids, despite very warm temperatures, lack of water and electricity (another story for another time), and little sleep. I am so proud of them all.
Today, Caleb had an opportunity to share part of his story with the kids. The past 2 days have been filled with very loud singing, goofy skits, and wild water wars. This was a departure from the wild and crazy and the kids seemed to really listen to Caleb's words. As he shared about his battle with leukemia, months of isolation in the hospital, and many obstacles he has overcome, he also emphasized God's closeness to him during difficult times and the overwhelming sense of peace that he has experienced despite great trials. The kids were shocked for a few moments when he finished and then had many great questions for Caleb. They asked about doubting God, battling depression, and experiencing trauma. Each question that a child asked was a glimmer of something they were experiencing in their own lives. By Caleb being open and vulnerable with these children, God allowed them to recognize that we were a safe place for them to ask these deep questions. The kids prayed for Caleb to close up our time.
My favorite moment was actually after Caleb shared. As we headed in to our 'closing ceremonies' for the day, many of the kids hung back to give him a hug, handshake, or just a knowing smile. Tonight we saw the power of a story but truly we saw the power of the Holy Spirit to move despite langue and culture differences.
Please pray for us as we have one more day of camp with these particular kids. Pray that the barriers that were broken down today allow our team to speak truth and show Jesus love in ways that are meaningful to the children.
Today, Caleb had an opportunity to share part of his story with the kids. The past 2 days have been filled with very loud singing, goofy skits, and wild water wars. This was a departure from the wild and crazy and the kids seemed to really listen to Caleb's words. As he shared about his battle with leukemia, months of isolation in the hospital, and many obstacles he has overcome, he also emphasized God's closeness to him during difficult times and the overwhelming sense of peace that he has experienced despite great trials. The kids were shocked for a few moments when he finished and then had many great questions for Caleb. They asked about doubting God, battling depression, and experiencing trauma. Each question that a child asked was a glimmer of something they were experiencing in their own lives. By Caleb being open and vulnerable with these children, God allowed them to recognize that we were a safe place for them to ask these deep questions. The kids prayed for Caleb to close up our time.
My favorite moment was actually after Caleb shared. As we headed in to our 'closing ceremonies' for the day, many of the kids hung back to give him a hug, handshake, or just a knowing smile. Tonight we saw the power of a story but truly we saw the power of the Holy Spirit to move despite langue and culture differences.
Please pray for us as we have one more day of camp with these particular kids. Pray that the barriers that were broken down today allow our team to speak truth and show Jesus love in ways that are meaningful to the children.