Happy Independence Day!!
Spending the 4th of July out of the USA is
interesting. There are things that we miss: family, parades, picnic, fireworks,
etc. However, we made some pretty great memories today in celebration of the
blessing God has given our country.
Every evening we close the night with an “E-Night.” I
believe it stands for “environment night,” meaning we create an environment for
informal gathering and fun. Tonight we had the Slovaks celebrate the 4th
with us! This may seem a little selfish being in their country and celebrating
ours. However, our English classes are based on “A Trip to America,” and we are
studying American cities and culture. So we felt free to have them celebrate
with us.
Unfortunately we were not able to bring fireworks or
sparklers, so we just had to describe them. We did however bring s’mores! Marek
said that the s’more was “the greatest thing I have ever eaten!” We had a
campfire and sang campfire songs, concluding the night by singing our national
anthem.
Alicia clowning around at our carnival!
Before s’mores, our team performed the “Everything Skit,” a
drama describing how Jesus created us to be in a relationship with Him, but our
pulled away by our sinful desires. It’s at our most desperate point that Jesus
jumps in to rescue us and concurs the sin! I had the privilege of concluding by
sharing the Gospel! Pray that seeds from the drama and talk take root!
Two of our students: Erika and Martina
It was really exciting to see our teens talking with the
students afterward. Some where teaching them how to make s’mores, but there
where some really good God-conversations taking place. I am proud of our team
for the effort they put into the skit and performing as if they were in front
of an audience of hundreds. Kayla told me today that at first she was sad that
there were “only 6 students” but now she thinks it is the perfect amount! She
said she didn’t know how we would be able to have as many opportunities with
more students. This size of camp leads to a lot of depth!
Marek is a student and Michael is one of the Slovak leaders.
The evening talks are going through the life of Peter,
setting the stage for the Gospel story. They are a progression of talks and are
intended to leave the students hanging, waiting for the next part.
I am also proud of Steven and Jeremy who shared the talk in
the evening program through and interpreter, the last two nights. Steven shared
on Wednesday night about how the Apostle Peter had to face the ultimate trial
of doubt when Jesus died. What were the thoughts Peter had when all his hopes
and dreams died?
Jeremy spoke tonight about how Peter need to refocus on
Christ and trust His teachings. He saw Jesus calm the storm and walk on water,
surly he could trust Him in this trial.
Two students: Lucas and Erika after a friendly bet. If Lucas ate his dinner
like a cat then Erika would jump in the lake. I think she regretted this haha
It brought me great joy to see them teaching. Both of them
enjoyed the opportunity and Jeremy said he really enjoyed talking through an
interpreter! I personally hate having to use an interpreter. Having to pause
and wait often derails my train of thought, but Jeremy said it helped him
gather his thoughts. That was exciting to me!
Girls escaping the rain
A note of thanks:
I have received several emails/Facebook messages telling me you
are praying for our team. It is great encouragement to read about the prayers
you are sending up for us. I am so happy that we get to share this trip with
you and I pray that you are blessed and encouraged by it.
haha you didnt even know what E-nights stood for...
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