Some of our more observant readers might have noticed that the name of my column is “On the Beat.”
I chose the name for two reasons:
(1) I play the drums as a hobby, and, obviously, being on the beat is kind of a big deal; and
(2) The phrase “on the beat” is, of course, an old-school journalism term for someone who routinely covers a specific topic. (For instance, a young journalist might be assigned to cover the “police beat” at a newspaper).
I mention all of this because — over the past few summers — I have become the unofficial “beat reporter” for Baptist summer camps, having written numerous stories for the Baptist and Reflector about the attendees, leaders and behind-the-scenes staffers.
In almost every case, the stories have been written from a firsthand perspective — as in, genuine boots-on-the-ground coverage from a guy who has attended an ever-growing list of summer camps.
Sometimes I’ve been there as a reporter, sometimes as a chaperon and sometimes as both. (This summer, I spent back-to-back weeks at camp with each of my sons: one week at CentriKid children’s camp and one week at Generate youth camp). I’ve also visited some of the camps that take place at our Tennessee Baptist Conference Centers, including All-Nations Camp and others.
In the process, I have learned many of the ins and outs of camp. And through it all, my biggest takeaway has been this: These camps are at the epicenter of our mission as parents and believers.
Beyond the s’mores and sing-alongs, the chigger bites and chicken nuggets, summer camp is a vital means of reaching the next generation for Jesus and starting them on the road to discipleship.
It is nearly impossible to describe the growth that some campers experience during a week when the hope and love of Jesus are woven into almost every activity.
Typically, each morning includes a designated block of time for campers to spend some time — quality time — alone with God. In many cases, these daily devotions prove to be some of the most special moments of the whole week.
There is something uniquely powerful about being in a picturesque, natural setting (such as the mountains, the woods or the beach) that makes it easy to have an encounter with the Lord of the universe.
Equally important, for some campers, these early-morning devotionals represent their first real experience of having a “quiet time” — and it potentially helps them form a wonderful daily habit.
After the morning devotionals, there is usually a time of worship. And you’d be amazed how energetic these services are! You wouldn’t think that children and/or youth are ready to sing, dance and praise the Lord at 8:45 a.m. But I’m here to tell you, the joint is jumping. When “Church Clap” or “Glorious Day” starts ringing out through the building, a spirit of worship spreads faster than a spilled cup of Kool-Aid.
The afternoons are usually filled with “rec time” and group Bible study, often sandwiched around lunch (pardon the pun). The activities are generally a mixture of soccer balls and sunburns, as the campers compete in a wide variety of games amid temperatures that feel like you’re about two blocks from the sun.
In the evening, the campers gather for the second worship service of the day. It’s once again a high-energy affair, although it generally shifts into a bit more mellow feel as the service moves along. This helps prepare the campers’ hearts for the most important moment of the day — the time of response. And it’s awesome to watch.
Professions of faith are made. Calls to ministry are answered. Prayer requests are presented, sometimes tearfully. It’s powerful stuff.
The day then typically concludes with “team” time, when the campers each gather with their respective church group to talk about the day, followed shortly by “lights out.” (I have noticed that campers, especially the younger ones, get more and more agreeable about bedtime as the week moves along. They might stay up late on Monday and drive the counselors crazy, but by Thursday, sleep comes easily. Sheer exhaustion is commonplace).
The next day, it’s time to rinse and repeat.
All in all, it’s a whirlwind of a schedule, but when you look back on it, you realize that each day was filled with laughter and learning, with friendship and focus, with singing and scripture.
And more times than not, campers ultimately return home different than they left. There’s a renewed enthusiasm about their walk with the Lord after their mountain-top — sometimes literally — experience.
So, why I am sharing all of this? Because I want you to understand the importance of “camp week,” and I want to encourage you to take some ownership when your church sends the kids and youth off to camp.
Praying for the campers and leaders is a great place to start. Maybe you can pack some snacks for the campers to eat on the bus. Or, if you feel led, perhaps offering some financial support, through a “scholarship program” or some other means. It might just be the best money you ever spent.
Why? Because the impact of camp stretches well beyond that one week. Sometimes it can be felt for eternity. B&R