Youth Camp #2 (Days 4 & 5)
We finished camp today and said our goodbyes, both to the 29 students who attended
camp, and to the 6 Hong Kong Team, who return home tomorrow, and 4 Chinese
Counselors. Next week is our middle school camp, expected to be the largest, with
about 50 students served by a reduced Chinese - American staff.
What and who we are unable to share with the children, we are able to share with the
counselors, since they are above 18 years of age. Many of these counselors are the
ages of our children, Jonathan and Rebekah. In fact, some of the counselors remind
and their personalities remind us of our children. We have become surrogate parents in
many ways, giving blessing and words of affirmation where they have been few or
wanting in their lives.
These counselors are remarkable. Their hopes and aspirations, their ambition and
energy, their selfless service and enthusiasm has been an inspiration to us to live
likewise. Plus, there is the additional blessing of observing the joy of newly born
believers. There transformation and thankfulness is infectious and awe inspiring.
These rejuvenates us in remarkable ways, in mind, body, and spirit. Despite the
difficulties of adjusting to a new time zone (14 hours difference), climate (the heat and
humidity), culture and language, smells and food, schedule and pace of life, somehow
moments like tonight make it all worthwhile.
Such experiences remind me of the A. Paul's words in Phil 3:9-10: "I consider all things
as nothing compared to the indescribable joy of knowing C. and the power of his
resurrection.
Knowing that C. will return, I truly look forward to the day when we will all be one nation
and one people on earth. Though we share diversity in language, origin, and
appearance, we will all sing one song of unending praise. Soli Deo Gloria!
We love and miss you all. As we experience these things, we constantly think of you,
desiring to share with you our joy. We also rest in the comfort and secure knowledge of
your love and prayers.
Love,
Jeff & Mim
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