Dispatch #3 from th' scurvy crew o' Vacation Bible Camp

Today at Vacation Bible Camp, we learned about compost. We got “down and dirty” as we discussed the seemingly yucky stuff that actually promotes growth. And we considered that there might be parallels to compost in our own lives.

Our parable today was the Parable of the Sower. As we discussed the seeds that landed on the path, on the rocks, on the thorns, and on good soil, we realized that not all seeds in challenging situations die. In fact, the birds sometimes do seeds a favor by eating them and then—er—depositing them elsewhere later, along with a generous helping of compost. Sometimes these seeds grow after all. So you never know how long it will be, or how much it will have to go through, before a seed that was sown finally begins to grow.

Father Lex was on for Chapel today, and he explored with the kids what their gifts and talents are. These are certainly treasures we already have—and they are treasures we can give away freely. It was percussion day in the music workshop, with Paul Johnson ably rallying the kids to explore their inner beat. (Paul is the director of the St. Thomas Youth Ensemble, which may well have a long list of new recruits now!) And across the street in Medina Park, the two-legged race brought friends together—literally.

We’re having a fabulous week. Please continue to keep the campers and staff in your prayers, that the seeds planted this week may contribute greatly to the harvest of God’s Kingdom.