It has Begun...

“For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2:5-7‬

“He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2:15‬

Yesterday held the arrival of our students. It was so much fun seeing students I knew from my last time here; it was encouraging that they remembered me. It's been two years and yet the impact I had was positive. I praise God for that! I know this impression is because of how Christ shines through me and not my own strength or ability.

The first evening meeting was filled with exciting songs, teaching the first part of the camp dance, games, and a short message. About 30-40 of the 50 kids are not believers. 

While we deeply desire every person to know Christ, it is important that we do not expect them to be ready to accept Him as their Savior this moment. The short message was delivered by Zuska, one of the camp directors. She asked the question, "What do you think God is trying to tell you?" From all the reports I heard, the discussion groups after went well and the kids began opening up–a very unusual occurrence for Czechs! This is a great start to the week!

The rest of the camp programs start today. First an opening session during which I was interviewed. I was honored to share my story about friendship and how God has taught me that it is His job to guard my heart, not mine. In fact, He is still teaching me this. The students seemed to listen and I pray that this interview will open up opportunities to share more about the love of God with the students.

 (Selfie from right before my interview) 

Right now I lay on my bed in a cabin. It is perfect outside. The rain has stopped for now, but I hope for more later. All the green is vibrant from the cleansing rain and the brown of the tree trunks and dirt is bright. It is a beautiful scene.

In the distance I hear the sounds of the first choir rehearsal. Each section is singing out and creating a pleasing cacophony. Normally I would be there singing out with all the sopranos. However, today took an unexpected turn. I woke up (quite early) feeling sick. It is merely a cold, but it has me laying down and resting. I don't have the energy for anything. I hate missing time with my students but at the same time I know I need to heal. Resting is the only way for that.

Providentially, God used a missionary here named Amy to share words of encouragement in the leader's devotion this morning. She reminded me that serving God is not always fun; sometimes it is excruciating and it frequently takes unexpected twists and turns. While I would not call today excruciating, it is in no way how I envisioned any of my time at camp. However, I know that God knew this would happen and has prepared me to glorify His name in this moment. 

In fact, I was able to talk with my dear Hanka about how God is my strength in the good and bad. We talked about our mutual love of God and how He is always faithful to get us through the bad times even though He doesn't have to. We owe Him so much yet He is so loving to us. I told her I feel really sick but that I don't have to find the energy within me to get through the day because my God is faithful to give me strength in my moment of weakness (2 Cor. 12:10; Phil. 2:13).

I am reminded by Colossians 2:5-7 that God is pleased with my dedication to Him and that my job is only to walk in Him. God will give me strength. God will bring me comfort. God will direct my steps. God is faithful. God is the only one who will get me through this. So, while I will take lots medication to help me heal, I will continue to walk in His strength, His love, His hope, and His joy. And if that was not already enough, He already defeated our enemy a long time ago (Col. 2:15). My enemy is not this awful cold, it is the one who wants me to forget about the love and grace of my Heavenly Father. My cold is merely a distraction, and only that if I let it be. But I choose to keep my eyes on Jesus, who began and continues to perfect my faith. For it is in, through, and by Him alone that I will bless those around me and show them the joy of my salvation (Heb .12:1-2; Hab. 3:18). 

Please pray with me that I heal quickly but even more importantly, glorify God no matter my circumstances. Please always pray that the hearts of everyone here (Christians included) are drawn closer to God and grow to a deeper love of God.

Thank you for your support!