Last week, Cay and I were privileged to join 18 Texas Christian camp directors at Camp Eagle near Rocksprings, Texas for three days of fellowship, devotions, sharing, prayer, late-night conversations, good food, relaxation, and planning. 

I have known some of the people around the table for over 20 years; others became new friends. Some were enjoying seasons of peace and blessing while others were struggling and discouraged. Some were young, just starting into the Christian camping ministry; others have spent a lifetime serving the Lord at camp. 
 

The directors came from camps that were big and small, denominationally affiliated, independent, and privately owned. Some drove eight hours or more to attend. The common bonds uniting the group were their love for Christ and their love for Christian camping.

We explored the twin challenges of rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15). And we spent time discussing professional challenges and opportunities of importance to the whole group. As joys, successes, and achievements were shared, there was a true sense of rejoicing within the group; no envy was evident. When the conversation turned to hurts, struggles and failures, the group united around the ones in pain.

The writer of the Book of Hebrews probably didn’t have Christian camp directors in mind when this warning was penned; Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). But Christian camp directors, more than most, seem to need, enjoy, and benefit from time away, sharing from God’s Word, building relationships, reveling in the beauty of God’s creation.

Camp for the camp directors – what a great idea!