By: Courtney Martin
Program Director
As we wrapped up our final day of Fall Bible Adventure Weekend we learned about how we can thank God. As we thank Him, we remember the friend He is to us at all times. To illustrate this with campers, the speaker for the weekend asked them to come to the front, choose a rock and place it as part of building an altar of thankfulness to God. The children shared in front of the other campers and staff one thing they were thankful for. Some of the items shared were:
“I’m thankful for my counselors in my cabin.”
“I’m thankful to be at camp this weekend.”
“I’m thankful to be here with my friends.”
“I’m thankful to be at camp this weekend to learn about God.”
“I’m thankful for life in community.”
As each camper shared these and many other statements, I was reminded how important it is for children and adults to be in relationship with others. Seeing these campers articulate the importance of being with 
others reminded me of how thankful I am for the community at Joy El. In a time where people are feeling more isolated than ever, the experience of getting to be with others seeking after God in a safe environment is a huge blessing. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us that we are to, “not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” I am thankful for the ways that God worked in the life of each camper that attended this Bible Adventure Weekend at Joy El and for the knowledge they have of God as their friend in all circumstances of life.
