I believe that much of the American churchgoing population, while not specifically swimming downstream, is slowly floating away from Christ.  It isn’t a conscious choice, but it is nonetheless happening because little in their lives propels them toward Christ. 

Francis Chan, Crazy Love

A Slice of Fresh Bread

It has been hot here in East Texas the past few weeks, temperatures in the low 100s (38+ C) and high humidity.  I’ve talked to three summer staff members from three different local Christian camps in the past week (Rockin’ C Ranch, Sky Ranch and Pine Cove.). 

Just making small-talk, I asked each how their summers were going.  I expected small-talk replies and comments about how hot it has been.  Each surprised me with what they didn’t say, their attitude and their focus.  All of them seemed oblivious to the heat, they were all enthusiastic and excited about camp, and each talked about the good things God was doing in the lives of campers and staff.

Spending time with campers, some difficult to love, during the hot, humid days of August in East Texas, is a challenge – especially after weeks and weeks of similar routine.  But none of that seemed to faze them; the excitement of living the love of God and sharing the truth of His Word with campers was all that mattered.

Nehemiah and Ezra faced the tough challenge of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and restoring the soul of a nation.  In the long, demanding, exhausting days of their work they discovered the truth, The joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10) 

If the heat of this world is wearing you down, reflect on Christ; remember who He is and what He has done for you.  The joy of the Lord is your strength. 

Prayer Requests

1. Please continue to pray for the fire situation in Russia.  At least three Christian camps have been evacuated but there have been no reported injuries.  Please pray for the continued safety of everyone involved and pray that God would allow the ministries of other camps to go on without interruption.
2. Christian camping Southern Africa and Christian Venues Association (Australia) completed major conferences last week.  Please pray that the information learned, relationships built and commitments made would strengthen those who attended these important events.
3. CCI New Zealand is hosting The Gathering August 8-12.  Please pray that this meeting for the executive leadership of CCI member camps would provide the networking and strategic planning to grow Christian Camping throughout their country.
4. The Leadership of Africa Christian Camping (CCI-East Africa) will meet later this month in Nairobi, Kenya.  They are moving forward with plans to become the newest and 19th member of the CCI Worldwide Alliance.  Please pray that all will go well and a string foundation will be laid for many years of effective ministry.
5. I will be participating in the Lausanne Congress on World Evangelism October 16-25 in Cape Town, South Africa. Please pray for the funding needed for this trip and that this will be an effective time of learning, networking, strategizing and inspiration.
6. Several CCI associations are in financial difficulty.Please pray for the operating resources for these associations to continue ministering effectively.