An excerpt from the Spring 2025 Joy El Journal:
“For in fact the body is not one member but many. (1 Cor. 12:14)”
The Apostle Paul offers a profound illustration of the unity and diversity within the Body of Christ, likening it to the intricacy and perfection of the human body, designed by our Creator. He highlights the beauty of many distinct members, each serving in a unique and essential role. No function is more important than another. Instead, we see how each part depends on the others, working together in harmony to fulfill the body’s purpose.
“And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? (1 Cor. 12:16-17)
“But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.
As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. (1 Cor. 12:18, 20)
This truth is evident at Joy El. I am continually amazed at how the mission and ministry here extend far beyond the camp itself. It’s much larger than any one program—it is a movement of God’s work, a beautiful expression of unity through diversity, made possible by the people He has called to serve.
We are incredibly blessed to partner with local churches in multiple regions, joining efforts to impact children and families in their communities. I am particularly inspired by the evangelistic mission we see both in our camps and in our Bible Adventure/CIA programs, which are reaching many unchurched families. Equally, the discipleship that takes place through these programs, as well as through our 4.12 Leadership Training Program, is an essential and ongoing part of what God is doing here.
But recently, what has deeply blessed me is recognizing how the ministry extends far beyond the confines of these programs. Through the dedicated staff and volunteers at Joy El, God is working not only in and through these programs but continues to work in each of us and through us wherever we go—so long as we are willing to allow Him to do so. It’s a privilege to share with you this year the inspiring stories of how God is using people like you to expand His Kingdom.
“The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor…
But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (1 Cor. 12:21-27)
Upcoming Events
- Paradise To Come Summer Camp (1st Week) – June 10, 2025
Sign Up for Summer Camp! Join us as we learn of the Paradise to Come! Parents, need to switch your week, or not sure what week will work best? No problem! Until May 31st, you can switch your week after registering, FREE OF CHARGE!
