Over the years, there have been many children who come to camp who have many obstacles and hurdles to overcome to have a happy life. These children don’t ask to be put in these situations, and some of them just “succumb” to what they feel is their lot in life. Others want to overcome and work to make life different or better. It’s all in what they choose to do…live in fear or live in faith.
*Cole was invited to come to summer camp as a 3rd grader through the Angel Tree program. He was scared to leave home and come to camp as he had never been away from home overnight before. It helped that his siblings came along with him, but he was still shy and afraid to talk to others.
During his first week of camp, Cole began to learn that even though his earthly father and mother were not a part of his life, he could depend on the love of his heavenly Father. At the end of his week, he decided to begin a relationship with Jesus. His siblings did as well and they were eager to go home and tell their guardian that they wanted to start going to church.
Cole and his family found a church that was close by to them and they began to attend. Soon, he and his siblings were actively involved in AWANA and the youth group. They were growing and thriving in their relationship with Jesus!
The children came to camp each summer after that first year (except for the summer of Covid where travel restrictions prevented them from coming to camp). Now, six years later, Cole came to camp again, about to enter 9th grade. He shared that he was afraid of what high school would be like, would he fit in, would his friends still be a part of his life. He had many other fears as well. Turmoil had hit his home. There were uncertainties that his family would be able stay together as a result of that was happening. His guardian was having a health crisis as well.
During the week, Cole came to realize that even though his life was being turned upside down and everything was changing, there was one thing that would never change…Jesus still loved him and wanted him to stay close to Him. Cole decided to rededicate his life to the Lord. He took things a step further and decided to join the 4.12 Leadership Training Program to further his walk with Jesus and to have support from his peers and a mentor.
Cole came to the first Leadership Training Summit in September. On the way, he shared that he was so glad to be in high school. Things were going well, and all his friends were still with him as they had many classes together. He was excited to tell us that he was in the honors program and so far, was doing well. He was more involved at church and helping with the younger children in AWANA. Things at home were still uncertain, but he said, “I know God will help us all work it out.”
After the training weekend was over, Cole said, “It wasn’t quite like camp, but I loved it! I learned so much and I feel like I’m getting closer to Jesus each day.” Though he said he didn’t talk to many of his peers, he did talk about a few that he hoped to keep connecting with. “I feel like God can use me,” he said. “I might not have the best of circumstances, but God is with me. He is all I need. He will get me through whatever journey I am facing.”
It’s exciting to see the outlook that Cole has about life! He will certainly overcome as long as he keeps God at the forefront of all he does. It brings to mind, John 16:33 – “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Cole has learned the key to overcoming and as a result, others will be changed as well!
*Name has been changed
