What a joy to be the Lord’s! Over the last two years, I have found myself overflowing with thankfulness in the Lord’s right hand through the confidence of His presence that has given eternal life (Psalm 16:11). The hymn “My Hope is in the Lord” came to mind with the lyrics, “For me He died, For me He lives. And everlasting life and light He freely gives.” How marvelous to know a living Savior who paid the price on Calvary, and where we put our trust in Him forever! With understanding this reality and truth, it is motivating to imitate His actions through the Spirit and labor for Him who has given His grace.
This summer, the Lord directed me to serve Him at a camp called Greenwood Hills located in central Pennsylvania. Right before I came to the camp, I spoke to a brother regarding doing the work well. His response was, “That is something to pray for,” and reminded me of a discussion we had during a Bible study. We spoke on praying for saints who devote themselves to doing what is good (Titus 3:8). It inspires me that I have friends in the Lord who are interested in asking our God to help a fellow servant through communicating with our Father. It leads me to do the same for those that Christ died for.
As I continue to trust Him, I have come to interact with dear saints who love the Lord Jesus and want to please Him as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1). The Lord brought me to work in the maintenance area of the camp, where I had little to no experience. There were various practical skills that I had not yet acquired, but I continued to have conversations with my God and ask for His help, with an attentive ear to listen and learn.
Upon arriving at Greenwood Hills, we began with the Memorial Day Conference. I will say it was quite a unique experience, and there were various skills I had not learned yet. I was asked to shadow a brother who is diligent and patient. He showed me the ropes (and vines) of where everything is and how it operates. Much of what was demonstrated was very thorough and well-explained. When there were moments of struggle, the Lord gave help. While working in this department, I came to understand that there are many ongoing projects and a great deal of dedication from those who lead them. I was especially thankful for the humility and patience of the saints in teaching and helping me understand how everything works. The Lord has gifted them with the courage and willingness to help others in various projects. I observed how they were always willing to pause their work to assist a fellow laborer. That was a great example to witness and encouraged me to develop similar attributes. Seeing how the Spirit led the saints here helped build confidence that the Lord will do the same with me as I continue to serve Him.
After the Memorial Day Conference, there was a week of no conferences or camps. It felt strange to be on the grounds with so few people, but the Lord provided resources. Miscellaneous projects needed to get done, such as spreading mulch, lawn mowing, weed whacking, etc. It was definitely something different that I’m used to, and I was trying to find the motivation to do so. One night, I was meditating on God’s Word and started thinking of the words in 1 Corinthians 15:58. “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” How motivating that is! I found this helpful in understanding that the work being done is His, and our labor will not be in vain because we strive to do every good work for His glory. Living for Christ in this profound way is a powerful reminder that my life is not my own, but it is His.
This summer, the Lord directed me to serve Him at a camp called Greenwood Hills located in central Pennsylvania. Right before I came to the camp, I spoke to a brother regarding doing the work well. His response was, “That is something to pray for,” and reminded me of a discussion we had during a Bible study. We spoke on praying for saints who devote themselves to doing what is good (Titus 3:8). It inspires me that I have friends in the Lord who are interested in asking our God to help a fellow servant through communicating with our Father. It leads me to do the same for those that Christ died for.
As I continue to trust Him, I have come to interact with dear saints who love the Lord Jesus and want to please Him as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1). The Lord brought me to work in the maintenance area of the camp, where I had little to no experience. There were various practical skills that I had not yet acquired, but I continued to have conversations with my God and ask for His help, with an attentive ear to listen and learn.
Upon arriving at Greenwood Hills, we began with the Memorial Day Conference. I will say it was quite a unique experience, and there were various skills I had not learned yet. I was asked to shadow a brother who is diligent and patient. He showed me the ropes (and vines) of where everything is and how it operates. Much of what was demonstrated was very thorough and well-explained. When there were moments of struggle, the Lord gave help. While working in this department, I came to understand that there are many ongoing projects and a great deal of dedication from those who lead them. I was especially thankful for the humility and patience of the saints in teaching and helping me understand how everything works. The Lord has gifted them with the courage and willingness to help others in various projects. I observed how they were always willing to pause their work to assist a fellow laborer. That was a great example to witness and encouraged me to develop similar attributes. Seeing how the Spirit led the saints here helped build confidence that the Lord will do the same with me as I continue to serve Him.
After the Memorial Day Conference, there was a week of no conferences or camps. It felt strange to be on the grounds with so few people, but the Lord provided resources. Miscellaneous projects needed to get done, such as spreading mulch, lawn mowing, weed whacking, etc. It was definitely something different that I’m used to, and I was trying to find the motivation to do so. One night, I was meditating on God’s Word and started thinking of the words in 1 Corinthians 15:58. “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” How motivating that is! I found this helpful in understanding that the work being done is His, and our labor will not be in vain because we strive to do every good work for His glory. Living for Christ in this profound way is a powerful reminder that my life is not my own, but it is His.
With this knowledge, I found it encouraging to do this work well and to set my mind where Christ is my commander. A brother suggested listening to His Word through books I have not yet read (as I have not yet finished reading the entire Bible). I found it helpful to hear the courageous acts of those who do what the Lord wants and not of their own. One (of many) thoughts that came to mind was those such as Joshua, who was deeply committed to following the Lord. He relied on the Lord to defeat the kings, and God showed His sovereignty through that. Listening to these passages has been a big help, and knowing that even though I can’t, my God can!
The week flew by! Thankful for the time I had! The next conference that arose was the Missions Orientation Program (MOP, for short). In preparation for this, I assisted a dear brother in getting the conference ready. At this time, I became more familiar with the equipment. I came to be more comfortable with how everything operates and how it runs. Things like the zero-turn mower, which was tough at first, but I got used to it over time. There were times when the flesh wanted to fret, but His Spirit helped develop patience in this effort. There were also moments when I was asked to do other tasks that seemed unexpected. Tasks such as painting a railing, sanding a van, replacing water jugs, refueling the equipment, etc. Of course, this was something I did not do on my own, but I was with a fellow brother. I'm thankful for these times because they foster good fellowship! While doing tasks with any believer, it brings encouragement through their testimonies and actions. I also helped in the kitchen, where I worked with other saints who love the Lord. It encourages my maturity and builds conversations to bring good fellowship in the Lord Jesus.
This week has been very enjoyable. The Lord has been teaching me a great deal during this time, and I have been eager to do every good work. During this time, I have been listening to the history books in the Old Testament. Those who diligently follow the Lord are committed to His work and project. That is someone I want to be, a servant of the Lord who is dependent on Him. Someone who is grounded in the Word. Someone who seeks fellowship with His Son. I am overflowing with thankfulness for the teachers He provided for me.
The week flew by! Thankful for the time I had! The next conference that arose was the Missions Orientation Program (MOP, for short). In preparation for this, I assisted a dear brother in getting the conference ready. At this time, I became more familiar with the equipment. I came to be more comfortable with how everything operates and how it runs. Things like the zero-turn mower, which was tough at first, but I got used to it over time. There were times when the flesh wanted to fret, but His Spirit helped develop patience in this effort. There were also moments when I was asked to do other tasks that seemed unexpected. Tasks such as painting a railing, sanding a van, replacing water jugs, refueling the equipment, etc. Of course, this was something I did not do on my own, but I was with a fellow brother. I'm thankful for these times because they foster good fellowship! While doing tasks with any believer, it brings encouragement through their testimonies and actions. I also helped in the kitchen, where I worked with other saints who love the Lord. It encourages my maturity and builds conversations to bring good fellowship in the Lord Jesus.
This week has been very enjoyable. The Lord has been teaching me a great deal during this time, and I have been eager to do every good work. During this time, I have been listening to the history books in the Old Testament. Those who diligently follow the Lord are committed to His work and project. That is someone I want to be, a servant of the Lord who is dependent on Him. Someone who is grounded in the Word. Someone who seeks fellowship with His Son. I am overflowing with thankfulness for the teachers He provided for me.
After MOP, I had about two weeks with no conferences. This was a particularly interesting time frame because it included various areas of downtime. The question is, “What am I doing during this downtime?” “What is the Lord teaching me within these moments?” One major aspect was spending time communicating with my Father. When doing His work, it is a good reminder to know we are doing this to please Him. The song, “It Was Finished Upon That Cross,” came to mind with the lyrics, “Boldly I approach my Father. Clothed in Jesus’ righteousness. There is no more guilt to carry. It was finished upon that cross.” Great lyrics! And what an inspiration that we can boldly approach Him through His Son! As our Savior said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30), and Christ has risen! God has fulfilled His plan to bring us Salvation! Because He lives, it encourages me to do all things for Christ, because He has paid it all for me.
With that said, I came to continue enjoying the fellowship with the saints who diligently want to do His work because they are led by the Spirit, which gives everlasting life! This will also come with practical skills, such as organization. I came to understand there are various projects that need to be done, and some are more important than others. Creating a spreadsheet of tasks to be completed and prioritizing them from most important to least has helped keep track of everything. Thankful for the technology we have! I also learned to slow down from time to time. While I am slowly learning how to use the equipment, I can take it easy and concentrate more on using it effectively. With His leading, I have been encouraged to keep going! As Paul says, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” - Romans 12:11-12.
I enjoyed this time, and it has built my appreciation for the saints who come here, who diligently want to please the Lord. I am thankful to know that various friends in the Lord come here often as they can to make sure the grounds look as good as they can be. I am also thankful for those who clean and spend countless hours cleaning throughout the summer. What a joy to witness and learn from, teaching me how attentive I can be to do the same.
With that said, I came to continue enjoying the fellowship with the saints who diligently want to do His work because they are led by the Spirit, which gives everlasting life! This will also come with practical skills, such as organization. I came to understand there are various projects that need to be done, and some are more important than others. Creating a spreadsheet of tasks to be completed and prioritizing them from most important to least has helped keep track of everything. Thankful for the technology we have! I also learned to slow down from time to time. While I am slowly learning how to use the equipment, I can take it easy and concentrate more on using it effectively. With His leading, I have been encouraged to keep going! As Paul says, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” - Romans 12:11-12.
I enjoyed this time, and it has built my appreciation for the saints who come here, who diligently want to please the Lord. I am thankful to know that various friends in the Lord come here often as they can to make sure the grounds look as good as they can be. I am also thankful for those who clean and spend countless hours cleaning throughout the summer. What a joy to witness and learn from, teaching me how attentive I can be to do the same.
The next conference was Summit Week, where I worked less than I normally do. Summit Week is a time of fellowship and sound teaching with other young adults. It was a delight to reconnect with friends and meet new ones. What I enjoyed the most were the deep conversations. Almost every night, a group of us gathers in a circle (with an elder to ask questions to) and discusses topics such as how we manage our guilt as believers, church structure with men/women, end times, and more. It was encouraging and something that was well needed as we walk by His Spirit.
Surrounding myself with friends in the Lord Jesus encourages me to see how the Lord provided actions that reflect His fruit. One aspect I have observed is that when playing games such as volleyball, humility is often represented. Even if someone is exceptionally good or exceptionally bad, the fruit of the Spirit provides help in humility and patience with one another. I felt a little bad that I did not do as much as I usually do when it comes to work, but I am coming to understand that it was okay. A brother told me that “I gotta enjoy summit “ and that is what I aimed for.
Surrounding myself with friends in the Lord Jesus encourages me to see how the Lord provided actions that reflect His fruit. One aspect I have observed is that when playing games such as volleyball, humility is often represented. Even if someone is exceptionally good or exceptionally bad, the fruit of the Spirit provides help in humility and patience with one another. I felt a little bad that I did not do as much as I usually do when it comes to work, but I am coming to understand that it was okay. A brother told me that “I gotta enjoy summit “ and that is what I aimed for.
Had about a week to prepare for the July Bible Weekend (which was the next conference coming up). There was a lot of rain throughout the week, so mowing was challenging to keep track of. The Lord has provided some time to mow at the end of the week, the day the conference was going to start. Thankful for that time before the guests came in. I also helped with the programming with the director. It was encouraging to develop a ministry with a fellow brother. I am glad to know that the Lord can use me to benefit the saints. At this point, I had a good idea of what needed to be done for the conference, such as locating the materials for the activities. setting up equipment as required, transporting materials from one location to another using the golf cart, etc.
I was also encouraged by the brother who was directing the conference. There were moments when I needed help with a task, and I willingly asked for help. My brother gave good insight on how important it is to ask for help because it creates good fellowship and conversation. I also came to realize that sometimes, when you try to do things on your own, it is where the flesh takes over. Of course, some tasks can be done on your own, but sometimes it is good to ask for assistance when needed and not be bitter thinking, “I can do it all.” I came to see that, as I am the one assisting other brothers with their tasks. Reminds me of the body of Christ, where all members are working together to be in touch with the Head (Colossians 2:19). Certainly, as a body of believers, we are all joined together to serve our living Head, the Lord Jesus.
The Lord has graciously helped me in my service and filled my heart with thanksgiving, enabling me to carry out His work. It has been a blessing to work alongside a fellow brother during the conference, and I deeply appreciate his partnership in building this ministry. I was also reminded of the contrast between God and man. How fleshly desires can lead to anger and frustration, while relying on God’s interests produces the fruit of the Spirit and overflows in thankfulness. I’ve witnessed this in the lives of various saints, and it has encouraged me to imitate their example.
I was also encouraged by the brother who was directing the conference. There were moments when I needed help with a task, and I willingly asked for help. My brother gave good insight on how important it is to ask for help because it creates good fellowship and conversation. I also came to realize that sometimes, when you try to do things on your own, it is where the flesh takes over. Of course, some tasks can be done on your own, but sometimes it is good to ask for assistance when needed and not be bitter thinking, “I can do it all.” I came to see that, as I am the one assisting other brothers with their tasks. Reminds me of the body of Christ, where all members are working together to be in touch with the Head (Colossians 2:19). Certainly, as a body of believers, we are all joined together to serve our living Head, the Lord Jesus.
The Lord has graciously helped me in my service and filled my heart with thanksgiving, enabling me to carry out His work. It has been a blessing to work alongside a fellow brother during the conference, and I deeply appreciate his partnership in building this ministry. I was also reminded of the contrast between God and man. How fleshly desires can lead to anger and frustration, while relying on God’s interests produces the fruit of the Spirit and overflows in thankfulness. I’ve witnessed this in the lives of various saints, and it has encouraged me to imitate their example.
The last event I served was Girls Camp. Similarly, at the July Bible event, I assisted the saints who needed help setting up the event. It was a pure joy to be a help whenever needed and to get everything set up. I also helped around the grounds (like I normally do) and assisted in the kitchen whenever asked. There were various opportunities for fellowship and reading the Word with others. We had a lot of volunteers come in, and a brother helped set up some devotional time together each night. It was helpful to read His Word with others, and the Lord provided good discussions. One thought that stood out was when we spoke about how we as Christians can stand out through gentleness and respect. Our theme verse was 1 Peter 3:15, which states, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” How great it is that we have such hope in a God who is living! With that, may we be reminded that because of our hope in the Lord, we may be motivated to share this hope with others through gentleness and respect. Another brother spoke on the definition of hope, which is “certainty for the future.” How wonderful!
I also had some time in fellowship with the saints at the church down the street. I was invited to join them for supper. It was a delight to be with them and felt appreciated for what the Lord has done. Oh, how great love we have for one another! “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” 1 Peter 1:22. While our Lord loves us, we are driven through His love to one another! How great! How sure! His love endures forevermore! Some saints wanted to spend more time together before I left, and we ended up playing dominoes together the next evening. Thankful for the time we had!
The Lord also provided some time to chat with a brother in building future programs to help magnify the gospel through our labor. We have had multiple conversations about ideas we can develop in the near future, if the Lord enables us. One significant aspect was to encourage young adults to build a program that allows for both work and fellowship, providing opportunities to spend time together in the Word. After being there for the majority of the summer, the Lord put it on my heart to help the camp grow to what the Lord desires. It is still in the conversation stage, but it definitely is something to pray about.
Overall, I considered it pure joy to be part of this ministry. The Spirit has led and provided help throughout this time. I encountered some challenges, but the Lord gave me His strength to overcome them and appreciate the moments I had. I will miss being there, but I will be willing to help out whenever they need it (as I am only 50 minutes away from the camp). Now, I am approaching my second (and last) year of graduate school. Excited where the Lord leads through His Spirit through the skills I learned at Greenwood Hills!
I also had some time in fellowship with the saints at the church down the street. I was invited to join them for supper. It was a delight to be with them and felt appreciated for what the Lord has done. Oh, how great love we have for one another! “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” 1 Peter 1:22. While our Lord loves us, we are driven through His love to one another! How great! How sure! His love endures forevermore! Some saints wanted to spend more time together before I left, and we ended up playing dominoes together the next evening. Thankful for the time we had!
The Lord also provided some time to chat with a brother in building future programs to help magnify the gospel through our labor. We have had multiple conversations about ideas we can develop in the near future, if the Lord enables us. One significant aspect was to encourage young adults to build a program that allows for both work and fellowship, providing opportunities to spend time together in the Word. After being there for the majority of the summer, the Lord put it on my heart to help the camp grow to what the Lord desires. It is still in the conversation stage, but it definitely is something to pray about.
Overall, I considered it pure joy to be part of this ministry. The Spirit has led and provided help throughout this time. I encountered some challenges, but the Lord gave me His strength to overcome them and appreciate the moments I had. I will miss being there, but I will be willing to help out whenever they need it (as I am only 50 minutes away from the camp). Now, I am approaching my second (and last) year of graduate school. Excited where the Lord leads through His Spirit through the skills I learned at Greenwood Hills!