I'm looking forward to hearing all of the camp stories from the adults who went to Missouri last week with the kids. I wanted to give you all a unique perspective on their experience that I was blessed to have last night.

I dropped by A--'s apartment yesterday afternoon around 5:00pm to see his father, B--. I was unaware that the campers were due to return later in the evening. One thing led to another and when I left last night at 11:00pm from their apartment I had really been blessed.

I'll skip all of the pre-arrival excitement... The apartment went crazy when A-- got back--primarily because he and the fellow campers who congregated at the apartment couldn't stop bouncing off the walls about how "tight" the whole experience was. (I haven't learned the proper exegesis for "tight" but in the context I think it means "more fun and awesome than my words can describe".) It was hilarious watching the kids who had stayed in Dallas trying to convince the campers that they had a lot more fun staying in Dallas. (Especially as they watched the videotapes of the kids at camp absolutely LOVING life.)

And in the middle of all the fun, crazy stuff the campers talked about, they also gave us a glimpse at some of the spiritual lessons they had learned: the reenactment of the crucifixion, the way they had to reconcile with each other if they hurt another camper's feelings...It wasn't the right time then for us grown-ups to probe on these issues - but we could tell they had been changed.

The kids (about 12-15) stayed in B--'s bedroom talking, watching the videos from camp, and listening to the CD they had brought back. One by one their parents came to the door to fetch them.

I know there was a good amount of blood, sweat, and tears shed before the trip (and having been a camp counselor, I'm sure there were blood, sweat and tears during the trip as well). But be convinced of these: the Lord has used you in a powerful way. As these kids have been transformed by the gracious words, Bible studies, and commitment you have given for this trip - God is glorified.

With you all - passionately pursuing Christ.

CG (W's and C's dad)