Day 7: The Goodbye

As we prepare to depart the bubble I am reminded of where our group was just 6 days ago. Shy,not knowing anyone, not knowing if they were going to make friends or what to expect from the week. 

Now they are outgoing, knows many other student and leaders, and were overwhelmed by what all happened this week.

It has been a jam packed week. The things and friends that they have made will last a lifetime.

"Will we come back next year?"

Only God will know. But I'm going to try my hardest to make it happen.

I am encouraged in so many ways for these students and look forward to seeing the disciples they will not only become but make.

From the heart of Keith Davis 

Day 6: The Hike

The view from the top of the mountain. Was called a hike but was in actuality a mountain climb.

Everyone went up half way and had a devotion time there. For those that wanted to they went up the rest of the way. Which was a trek to say the least.but it was great to see the students push through the obstacles of the mountain.

The last day is always a hard one, knowing that tomorrow will be the end. But we make the best of every moment. 

From the heart of Keith Davis 

Day 5: The Food

This seems strange to have a post of only food but if you have ever been to camp this is sometimes the talk of the students...in a bad way.

This is not the case here. Since we got here, it has been great. I tell the students 

"it's like mom used to make"

They are being fed in many ways. 

Physically, emotionally, and most important spiritual. I have already seen in the short time we have been here a maturing of what they believe, how they believe and why they believe. 

The focus at this camp of course is leading the lost to their savior and building towards discipleship for the saved but it gets a little more deeper then that.

I am encouraged many minutes of the day of how that is accomplished here through games, team building, devotional, and relationships.

"We are thirsty for more of you"

From the heart of Keith Davis 

Day 4: enlightening

During morning devotion today the students were asked to describe what church is to them...some I saw coming but others alarmed me.

These same descriptions are some of the   major issues as to why some students are leaving the church.

When asked as to "can you be a Christian without going to church?" Most responded with a no. This correlates back to the thinking they have of church.

How can you be part of a family if you don't live in the house; to be a Christian shouldn't you be in his house with the rest of the family?

The post has two meanings. Enlightening to these observations but also true lighting. Rain has begun and has put a delay on afternoon free time. An opportunity for the students to find ways to fellowship and spend time with one another outside of the modern conveniences. What does that mean for the guys? Cards and wresting on their mattresses. For the girls? Facials and mani pedis. Ahh the simple life of camp. Just as it should be.

From the heart of Keith Davis 

Day 3: Refreshing

With a great morning devotion at the flag poll starting the day speaking about not just Talking the talk but walking the walk.

Anyone can talk what to do but do you walk what you say?

I have already been asked by most of the students during breakfast the question of the week so far...

"Are we coming back next year?"

That is a very promising question especially only being on the second full day of camp.

The one worry I had that been taking away...”will they meet new people”...

Every student has met new leaders and other campers. The relationships they are building will last longer then just tomorrow… they will last a lifetime.

I now sit here pondering "are we coming back next year?"

Only God knows that one. But one thing I know is...God is great, He has love for these students and knows the best for them.

From the heart of Keith Davis

Day 2:SEYC- it starts

It has begun. Our drive was smooth. All 9 students made it...just kidding we have all ten and will return with ten. 

Day 2 is already started eventful. The theme plays in so well with "reckless" by Jeremy camp as our anthem for the week. 

The verse comes from Philippians 3:7. For whatever we think we have we give it away for the sake of Christ. 

Being reckless in our standards is much different then being reckless for Christ. Reckless for us is one sided or selfish...being reckless for Christ is selfless. 

All students of course for the first meeting time and such were shy but as I looked out during lunch today every single one of them had connected to another group and were siting with them. It's great to be a sheltered of them but to know that as they connect to different groups, will strengthen the rest of our group. 

As I sit here I'm reminded of how much camp really is. After the worry of how they will enjoy it, whether they will make  a commitment, make a few friends, get something out of it. I know that God has it all in his great loving arms. 

Day 3 tomorrow.

From the heart of Keith Davis 

SEYC

Sweet Keith leaves for SEYC camp in the morning with the Youth.
Praying that they have a wonderful time!!