CAMPING

Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together . . . but encouraging one another.

HEBREWS 10:24–25

Part of the fun of camping or backpacking is sharing the adventure with our companions: the misery of the grueling hike to the campsite, the mosquitoes that will not quit, the mysterious noise in the middle of the night that turns out to be just porcupines, not bears. All those not-too-fun moments become stories to laugh about later. Of course some moments truly are enjoyable—a breathtaking view, butterflies weaving through wildflowers, a swim in a shockingly cold lake, fresh-caught fish, s’mores around the campfire. And there are shared projects: working together to put up the tent, to cook meals outdoors, to secure the food out of reach of those nosy bears, to break camp and clean up. For anyone who enjoys the outdoors, it can be a great bonding experience.

Sometimes the church draws together in a similar way. There are important jobs we’ve been given to do: to be Christ’s witnesses and to care for widows and orphans, for instance. We often have fun together, whether it’s at a barbecue, a day at a water park, a ski retreat, or just a gathering of friends over coffee. Then of course there are necessary, practical tasks, such as helping with church cleanup days and giving money to pay staff and keep the lights on. Being the church means collaborating with other believers. Maybe it can also be an adventure that brings us together.

Father, thank You for all Your good gifts, including the beautiful outdoors, our fellow believers, and the work You have for us to do. Help us to work together with joyful hearts, knowing that this pleases You.