Surely, camp is filled with games, meals, small groups, large group worship, and growing relationships within our own group and the rest of the synod. The unknown factors are often those coming from the other side: those whom God has called us to serve. The best summation of the Servant Event comes in a summary of the unknowns that became known.
As many congregants know, The Crossnore School is a facility that takes in at risk kids (up until age 17), most of whom have been removed from their homes by Children's Services. At this year's Servant Event, about 40 youth and adults from across the Synod came together to bring the story of Joseph to life for the children of Crossnore. While the school is in the midst of much change due to demographic turnovers and state regulations, God's mighty hand was apparent in the lives of all who participated in VBS. How appropriate that the biblical story--one of family betrayal and governmental apathy--resonated with the very lives lived by the children at Crossnore. Our youth were exposed to the power of God that brought beautiful relationships out of the tragic pain of abandonment and loneliness. It was not easy--indeed, times of discouragement nearly brought VBS to its knees--yet, at this time of need, God showed up. Not only did God equip His servants, but God also inspired the children of Crossnore to give insight into what their lives are really like, and share how much they need members of Christ's Body.
The rest of those attending the Servant Event spent their days working to better the living conditions of those in Western NC. Some worked to clear dense woods and brush to make room for new Habitat homes, while others gave time to assist local schools in the upkeep necessary between school years. The response of the local population was amazing. One school was so impressed with the work done that school sweatshirts were given to all who worked there (Panther Pride!), while another school was so grateful that custodians, teachers aids, and a principal used their own money to buy lunch for the group. While the clearing crew saw less of the local population, they experienced God's movement toward unity of all people when they worked and eventually played with a Jewish youth group. Though the work varied, and very few actually worked in a traditional Habitat setting, it was abundantly clear that God brought us there for a reason: to offer help to those in immediate need, and to show us what humble and selfless thanksgiving looks like.
On the last day, the entire camp put together a field day for Yellow Mountain, a sheltered workshop where adults with disabilities can earn a living. Our interaction with these people of God included music, field games, a picnic lunch, and much conversation. The sound of laughter typified this entire day. God brought us all to one level, and by doing so, brought down the walls of ability and social convention. Instead, we were all known by one reality: children of God, people of the Promise, and redeemed by Christ. The unimportance of our ability became apparent, and then was eclipsed by God's immense ability to bring unity in places that the world sees no possibility for harmony.
Surely, we also saw God's handiwork in Linville Gorge and on Flat Rock that overlooks the mountains. Yet, perhaps the most important message of the week was that, despite all of our work, "only God is great and greatly to be praised, and only God will reign forever." This began as a chorus sung in large group, but quickly became evident because our impotent lives and weak work was resurrected and empowered by this God. Thanks be to God for showing up when we need God most.
