Reliving Camp
I was buzzing around the gym 30 minutes before the start of our 10th annual South of the Mountain Trail Run, trying to make sure all the details were coming together the way they should. Runners were checking in and warming up while upbeat music added to the energy of the atmosphere when I heard a small voice call out from behind me, “Steve!”
I turned to see a group of kids headed my way, led by 8-year-old Jessica who ran up and hugged me. As the rest of the group approached, I recognized that they were campers from last summer who live in a foster community about 40 minutes away. Their recreation director had made arrangements for them to participate in the 5k and brought them to the race.
They were so excited to be back at camp—even if just for the day. We reconnected and shared some memories. Suddenly, one of them recognized that one of our chapel songs was playing over the speakers. They started singing along, complete with the motions, reliving their camp experience. My heart was filled with joy.
So many of our campers, just like these, are in foster care and have a myriad of struggles brought about by abuse and neglect. Summer camp provides a place where these kids can just have fun and be loved, while learning all about the Lord who loves them more than they ever imagined. It has a dramatic effect on their spiritual development. In fact, I baptized two of these kids last summer. To see them again was the highlight of my day.
The reason these kids, and so many others like them, were able to come to camp last summer is because we have a policy that no child should ever be denied the opportunity to attend camp for financial reasons. We allow every child to come, and we trust God to provide the funds needed. And He does.
He does it through ordinary people like me and you. When you support South Mountain Christian Camp, you are opening up the opportunity for children who have been through unimaginable pain to encounter the relentless love of God. Only He can heal their broken hearts and bring hope into their shattered lives. I’ve seen Him do it time after time, and you can help make it happen.
One great way you can do that is with #GivingTuesday. On #GivingTuesday, November 30th, Meta (Facebook) will match $8 million in qualifying donations made through Facebook. Matches are made on a first-come, first-served basis and will begin at 8am Eastern Time. So, if you plan your donation to SMCC through our Facebook Page at 8am that day you can have an even greater impact!
If you don't do Facebook, you can also to partner with us through your giving in other ways. You can give online through the donate button below, or mail your donation to South Mountain Christian Camp at PO Box 9, Bostic NC 28018.
A Free Gift for You
I would love to send you a free, autographed copy of my book, Footsteps of Faith. This ministry autobiography shares some incredible stories of God's hand at work in my life, at South Mountain Christian Camp, and in the lives of our campers. To receive your free copy, place your order through the link below. No purchase is required. Donations are deeply appreciated.
