A Lasting Legacy
I love to write, but last month I found myself dreading it. With a heavy heart, I stared at blank sheet of paper trying to pen my own father’s obituary. Eventually, I came up with this: “After 20 years of pastoral ministry, a career as a carpenter, and raising a family devoted to the Lord, Charles E. Collins has officially retired to his eternal benefit package. The retirement plan went into full effect on May 11, 2015 and was fully funded by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Charles remains devoted to his wife of 43 years, Cathy Sisk Collins and eagerly anticipates their reunion in heaven. Until then, he will be reminiscing with the Holy Spirit about their years in ministry together, chatting with God about the joys of fatherhood, and making sawdust with Jesus in His woodworking shop…”
Now, you may be wondering what my dad’s life has to do with the ministry of South Mountain Christian Camp. The answer is, everything. Not just because he faithfully made donations every month, and not just because he volunteered countless hours of labor. The greatest impact my dad had on this ministry came through the way he raised me. The genuineness of my dad’s relationship with God nurtured my relationship with God. The faith my dad displayed every day built up my faith. My dad’s passion for ministry inspired me to go into ministry. And when everyone I knew scoffed at my calling to camp ministry, it was my dad who encouraged me to pursue it. I would not be here today if it were not for the investment my dad made into my life every day.
There is simply no greater venture than investing in a child’s life. In so doing, you affect not only that child, but also every individual they will reach in the future. This is what South Mountain Christian Camp is all about. It’s not just about sending kids to camp. It’s about changing lives and impacting future generations. Together, in conjunction with the Lord Jesus Christ, we are making a difference!
