Commission Service

My nose is a bit stuffy, and I'm pretty sure I know the reason why: I didn't get enough sleep at camp. However, I would go through a hundred stuffy noses if I were able to keep doing what I am doing and were able to help at such awesome camps! God really did an amazing work at Bowman Park Camp this past week! It was such an encouragement to just be there and pour into the lives of students. It was sad to leave and to realize that not only was camp over, but also that I will not see some of the students until next year.

In spite of all of this, though, I would have to say that I think the last night of camp was the best. The day seemed like any other day - actually kind of bland because all the excitement of the week had already played out. Then came the service, and something changed. The atmosphere was one of such encouragement and action. The students lead us in worship - and I got to play along with my Djembe. After that Del got up to give his last message, and it was not what I expected. It wasn't your typical sermon, but was basically a commissioning service for the students.

First, he gave them all a chance to stand up and share how God had been working in their lives that week. I was amazing to hear some of the stories. Some students that I never hear share got up and poured out their hearts. It was very encouraging. Next, he talked to the students about living out an active faith after camp. On an index card he had them write down the names of 5 people that they could be actively sharing their faith with. These names were the names of friends that the students could slowly introduce to the gospel and love.

Following this he handed out another index card with the Barn's information on the back (and I didn't even ask him to do it). This card was to encourage students to be active in connecting with other students after camp. He encouraged them first to serve in their local churches and then also to connect with others and grow at the Barn. Then, finally, he had all the students come forward, followed by the adults who laid hands on them. Pastor Ken and Pastor Dick proceeded then to pray for these students and commission them to go out and serve.

It was such an amazing night, and I'm so glad I had a camera to snap a picture of it all. This picture along with a few others, my Memory book and my actually memories is all that is left of camp this year... please pray that God continues to work beyond this camp meeting in the lives of these students!