Day 1 (June 10)
We had a great first day at camp yesterday! Day 1 is always a little bit of a weird day because everyone is figuring out the camp schedule and where everything at camp is located. Last night was our first camp service and it was amazing! We looked at our camp verse, which is Psalm 34:8- “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”
Can you think about the best thing you’ve ever eaten? Maybe you had a great steak or a special dessert at some fancy restaurant. Maybe it was just a warm donut after not having one in a long time. Whatever the thing was that you ate, you know the feeling we’re talking about. You’ll always remember eating it because it was just.that.good. Our desire for our kids at camp and for you as well is to experience the Lord in such a way that it’s like nothing you’ve ever had before. The life that God promises us is a great one.
Our message last night was about the story of Zacchaeus. The point we emphasized with all the kids is that God sees them. In Matthew 19, we learn that Zacchaeus was a tax collector and was not liked by the people of his town. He heard that Jesus was coming into his town and he really wanted to see Jesus. He was short so he couldn’t see over the crowds, so this wealthy, grown man, climbed up into a tree so he could see Jesus as He passed by.
Luke 19:5-6- “When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy.”
Jesus saw him. Although Zacchaeus was high and hidden in a tree, Jesus saw him- - and called him by name! Jesus wanted Zacchaeus to know that He saw him, but even more than that, Jesus knew him.
We reminded the kids at camp that the Lord knows who they are and loves them unconditionally. He sees them. They matter to Him. Parent, the same is true for you. God knows you completely and loves you completely. He’s not going to love you any more or any less than He does right now. His love is not dependent upon your performance. He sees you…and loves you.
Do you remember when your child was a little younger and he/she would ask you to watch them? Maybe they still do that a little bit now. :) Sometimes your child was really doing something amazing for their age, but more times than not, it was just something little and not super important. They just wanted you to watch them and recognize them. They just wanted to be seen by you.
Parent, you are seen and recognized by your Father, the God of the universe. We don’t tell you that to scare or intimidate you. We tell you that so you can know that you’re just that valuable and important to Him. We encourage you to make it a priority to spend the next few days going through the Kids Camp Parent Devotionals. Use this time as an opportunity to slow down and focus on the spiritual side of who you are. Our hope is that you’ll be reminded of how sweet and good it is.
We’re Rooting You On-
WC/Kids Pastors