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Focal verse
“As in one body we have many members and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another” (Romans 12:4-5).
Reflection
This summer, my 11-year-old daughter will be attending a weeklong sleepaway church camp for the first time. This past year, the executive director of Camp Tomah Shinga in Junction City, Kan., came to speak at our congregation. The director’s energy, videos and games drew my daughter in immediately, and before the morning was over, she was ready to sign up for camp.
My daughter is the same age as I was when I first went away to camp. I’m feeling excited and nervous but mostly delighted that she will experience the love of God through camping ministry. I look forward to hearing about the new songs she learns and the counselor’s funny skits. I can’t wait to hear about the games and campfires, and how much she learns about the Bible through daily study. I pray she’ll connect with others her age and find a kindred spirit. I anticipate seeing her growth and independence.
Mostly, though, I want her to know that the church isn’t just the people we worship with every Sunday, that God’s church includes people in our town and across the country. I want her to see God in creation and campfire gatherings and silly ice-breaker games. I want her to make friends who are excited about their faith and who ask big questions. I want her to know that, wherever she goes, God goes with her.
This summer, whether your children are going to sleepaway camp, to vacation Bible school or on trips, remind them that they are never alone. Give thanks for the church in your community and for all the people and places you’ll meet along the way who show the love of God.
Practices
- Eat a family meal outside. Enjoy the sounds of creation. Give thanks for the grass, air and animals. Wave to any neighbors you see.
- Learn camp songs and use them for your prayers before meals. Enjoy learning hand motions and adding some playfulness to your prayers. (Look up the “Superman Grace” and the “Addams Family Grace.”)
Prayer practice
Together, as a family, pray for Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. Find an ELCA camp near you and learn the names of the counselors and staff. Pray for them by name. Pray for the kids who will be coming to camp and the families at home. Pray that God’s love may be known and shown to all who enter the camp.
