With the start of a new year, we can tend to focus on the exciting future ahead. Here at camp, the beginning of the year is rather quiet. The lake is frozen over, the hub is at a stand-still, the sweet shop is silent, and the whole campground is nearly empty of people. In this season it can feel like what we are doing is not truly ministry. Making plans for future events, cleaning up after small gatherings, and spending the day in the office does not feel as exciting as the summer months. But ministry is not just about the things we do for Christ, it is also about serving Him wherever we are. For many of us, there may be a certain season of life where it feels like we accomplish more for Christ. That season could be you right now, but for others, this season could be marked by just putting one foot in front of the other. Ministry could mean loving the people around you, taking time to grow your relationship with Christ, committing to your church, and choosing to live each day for the Lord. This season is not without purpose. Even in the slow, cold, dreary winter days, life is still brimming with hope.
Though January can be pretty quiet, that does not mean that there is not anything going on here. We are in the process of planning for the summer ahead, and it is going to be a fantastic summer!
We recently released our theme for this summer: Pursuit. This summer you will have the opportunity to learn about how the Lord pursues you, and how to pursue others through Jesus’ teachings in Luke 15. The shepherd sought the one lost sheep, the woman sought the coin, and the son returned. Each of these stories reveals a part of God’s unique pursuit in our own lives.
Along with summer planning, we are looking forward to our retreat season in February and March. There are retreats for pretty much any individual from middle school to adults! We hope to see you there at one of them! We also have begun our skate nights. This is a great way to break up the wintery mundane each Friday night. We have our rock-wall, snack bar, coffee shop, inflatables, and of course, skating. This has so far been a great way to connect with the community on a weekly basis.
We have so many exciting events that are coming up. Right now is a prime time to register/apply for events like camps, Teens ‘n Training, Summer Staff, and volunteering for the summer. We urge you to sign up for these programs while spots are available! They go quickly! Also, if you register for our summer camps before April, you get a 10% discount!
We are looking forward to a summer and retreat season full of fun, memories, and life-changing decisions!
In Christ,
The Maranatha Team
