Peter’s reflection
Camp Day 2
Today we had 54 youngsters with us and were joined by some German volunteers as well as the last day for Romanian volunteers.
‘m sure some would think it was almost reckless doing craft with paint and sponges as the first things as the children continued to arrive! However the parts for the Wall of Jericho came together well. It is surprising how inquisitive and attentive the youngsters are, when one asked (via an interpretor) how I was singing along in Romanian with the songs, as I didn’t understand the children. I tried to explain that I had picked up some pronounciation and was a split second late, but ended up with her understanding it was guesswork!
After holding up the words for 4 songs one after the other, it was easier to understand why Moses’ arms had to be held up during earlier battles – he was holding a staff, while I’d only been holding large pieces of cardboard!
Then outside for more games (relay races, running, hopping, on all 4s like a crab (ok 4 limbs short) sideways. One team decided to show their greater knowledge, and crawled forwards which was definately quicker. (spider crabs can go forwards, as can soldier crabs but I think that’s only as a group, like Roman soldiers in the attack formation).
Pizza and Cola for lunch, maybe the reason for the children not quietning down so quickly for the yacht, heart and ribbon craft after Jesus (Isus) calming of the stormy sea and the wind.
However, it was enjoyed by all and some were able to take untouched slices of pizza for other members of their families. Again the closeness of families standing out in contrast to many families back home.
More games played inside or outside proved a useful place for energies being lost, some of the games being explained by the youngsters themselves.
As a team, we found it a satisfying but tiring day.
Cameron’s reflection
As soon as the day dawned I could not sleep. Nor did the Lord allow me to fall back to sleep after my alarm. I had laid there simply listening. God gave me a new energy today, ready as soon as my eyes opened and I was more at comfort and ease to communicate with the kids we were teaching. It is clear they like me, and that brings joy.
Though, as I reflect, there is a sadness of knowing day 2 of the camp is over, and tomorrow will be the last. I wish I could do this every week but His will be done, not mine. There were more kids today than of yesterday, hopefully more tomorrow than of today. And I realise that is a lot of responsibility God has placed on our heads, reassuring me of the importance of this mission, and the promise that He is before us. I am beginning to make sense of things, my place in all of this, so I have asked the Pastor Simon if I may lead tomorrow and he has given me charge of the morning. I seek to strengthen and test my own skills, as I step into a purpose I feel as though God calls me for, and also to increase familiarity with the kids that they may be more comfortable with this stranger they have never seen before.
It has been an honour and a joy working with these kids so far and I pray what we are doing will leave an impact that covers them for the rest of their lives. They are truly gifts of God to bless the earth with. As evening broke, I spent some time in solitude to regather my many thoughts- I ask for prayers as I face a battle of the mind- and to recharge my energy before the 4 of us ventured into the city centre. Upon our return I made them wait for a meal, creamy chicken and bacon carbonara, which they all loved and were impressed with my cooking. As I now write this some are sleep and I must too. Another long day prepares to wake us tomorrow morning. May the Lords love uphold you all.
Simon’s reflection
I have lost count of the times I have talked about teamwork and today is definitely one of them. To be honest I didn’t like some of what I tried to lead today – but did it work overall? Yes, totally because team works. So many who work together to get alongside, encourage, inspire! And the conclusion of today’s programme – perfect!
I also reflected today that without this marvellous team from around Europe this camp would have been really hard work. We would have been struggling cos we were only a team of 4 – but this group (pictured below) has more than made up for those who weren’t able to join us. It is almost as though God has said “it is ok – this is my mission, not yours!”
Thanks for keeping us all updated. Yes, indeed it’s God’s mission and he pushed us outside our comfort zone so that we learn. May we all keep learning and may you all be aware that God has gone before you. Have a great day, that will be pleasing to Him.