About 15 years ago, a pastor friend called and asked me to meet with a man in his city who wanted to start a camp.  I reluctantly agreed to drive seven hours into the heart of Texas to kick dirt, dream dreams, and pray that God would make His plans clear. 

The site was stunning.  The headwaters of the crystal clear Nueces River, over a mile of river frontage, unique cliffs and rock formations, 1,400 acres of rugged West Texas wilderness, billions of stars, and a few dilapidated buildings that once had been the corporate playground of a now defunct business giant. 

I’ve intersected with the development of Camp Eagle several times over the past 15 years, but I had not been on the ground since 2007.  A lot has changed in the past five years: new buildings, effective programs, skilled staff, focused resources, and clear mission.           

Years ago, I learned (not original with me but not sure of the source) that there are four critical elements in every successful non-profit organization:  1) a clear purpose/mission/vision; 2) a strong, active, healthy board of directors; 3) a leader who embodies the values of the organization; 4) the ability to attract human and financial resources – people and money!

I would add a fifth – the grace of God!

Sometimes we do all the right things, yet we have the ministry of Jeremiah.  His calling was to minister faithfully his whole life only to experience pain and see little or no success by human standards.  But sometimes we are called to serve like Nehemiah.  He was blessed to see God use his efforts to rebuild, restore, and to lay the groundwork for revival. 

Whether in the good times or tough times, it is remarkable to see God’s hand at work over the long-haul.  I love visiting camps but really love revisiting them and seeing God’s plans worked out in His time and in His way.