CCI Worldwide Blog

This generation is in danger of getting stuck in a version of Christianity that is never challenging, dangerous, adventurous.

Reggie Joiner, Move

Every day I receive an assortment of mail; personal letters, magazines, announcements, invitations, bills, and of course credit card offers. I love getting real letters from friends, invitations are nice, bills will always be there, and some reports still come in paper form. 

During the Spring, Summer and Fall I accumulate all of the unrequested and unappreciated credit card offers and store them in a box in my garage.  Once the air turns cold, I protect my identity by using them to start the fires in my fireplace.  No sense using shredder time unnecessarily.

How odd that some letters I eagerly await, but other mail is an unwanted pain!  Paul reminds us that we too are letters. You are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3).

I want to be the kind of mail people look forward to receiving.  I hope to embody the good news of Jesus Christ.  Camp is a relational ministry – life letters are written and read every day.  Don’t be junk mail; the more personal, informative, inviting and loving we are, the greater the impact of our message.

CCI-Russia is concluding its Christian Camping Leaders Conference (January 29-February 2). Please pray that the instruction, encouragement, networking and planning of this conference would translate into effective camps and conferences throughout the Former Soviet Union during 2012.

CCI-Philippines will hold its National Forum (February 28-29) at Bayside Bible Camp.  Their theme will be STAY ALIVE! In Faith.  Pray for good attendance and for the training, encouragement, sharing, planning and worship during this national conference. 

Less than three months remain until participants from around the world gather at Pinos Reales near Madrid, Spain for CCI’s Worldwide Summit April 19-24, 2012.   Please pray for the planning and preparation for this conference.  Especially pray that all of the invited guests would be able to obtain the required visas to enter Spain for this event.

El Monte, a camp in Mexico, continues to struggle with the takeover of its site by squatters.  Please continue to pray for the safety of all involved and for a quick and positive resolution to this conflict.  (For more details please go to El Monte Mexico on Facebook.) 

CCI-Ukraine will hold its Instructors’ Forum February 3-5 in Kiev. Please pray that the leaders assembled will be encouraged and prepared to teach others later this Spring in training conferences throughout the Former Soviet Union.

Employees are happiest when they’re trying to reach goals that are difficult but not out of reach.

Daniel Gilbert, The Science Behind the Smile, Harvard Business Review, January-February 2012.

Last week I was in Santiago de Campostela in Northwest Spain to attend the CCI-Spain national conference. Santiago de Campostela was a major pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages and remains a significant site for pilgrims today.  It is believed to be the burial site of James the brother of Jesus.

To guide travelers on their way, the route is marked with seashells symbolizing the city’s proximity to the Atlantic coast. The background and symbolism of the shell is rather murky, but one explanation is that the shell reminds us that providing a drink or morsel of food to a weary pilgrim, even one that would fit within the shallow sea shell, would be rewarded.   

Whether that is what started the seashell tradition or not, it is a good reminder.  The world is filled with weary travelers. A gift, no matter how small, a smile, a greeting, a word of appreciation, or a prayer can lift the spirits of a beleaguered traveler on life’s challenging pathway.

Jesus reminds us of the importance of giving small gifts, If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward. (Matthew 10:42)

Don’t wait for a big opportunity to help.  Use whatever little gift you have to encourage a friend on the road today.

CCI-Spain held its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that the information shared, lessons learned, and relationships built would be  key elements in furthering the effectiveness of Christian camping throughout the region.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over three months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray for the financial support needed as we enter this new year.

No one ever told me that when I wear a mask, only my mask receives love.

John Lynch, Bruce McNicol and Bill Thrall, The Cure

I received several very nice Christmas gifts from family and friends.  One came from Paul, the church custodian where I office. (My church provides CCI with a wonderful office, internet service, utilities, and they even have the Church custodian take out my trash.) 

I rarely stop for lunch and throughout the day I graze on my ABC diet: Apples, Bananas and Carrots.  Occasionally I splurge and add an orange, pear or plum to my workday menu. (I do enjoy a normal evening meal.) The waste basket by my desk regularly contains apple cores, banana peels, and plumb pits. Not a pretty picture. But Paul faithfully cleans up my mess and leaves a fresh clean trash liner.  Paul even provides a smile and a word of encouragement when our paths intersect.

I’m good at making messes.  But I’m in remarkable company; the Bible is filled with stories of people who made messes.  The first mess recorded was made by Adam and Eve and it also involved an apple.  They couldn’t clean up their mess and neither can I.

Within God’s big plan, fruit, messes, and clean-ups seem to be recurring themes. Paul reminds us, But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (I Corinthians 15:20-22)

Only God can clean up the messes we make.  Through Jesus, he redeems them for his purposes.

So what did Paul give me for Christmas? A fruit basket; more cores, peels, and pits. More messes and more cleanups along life’s way. 

CCI-UK continues to seek the help of another part-time staff member.  A short-term helper will be leaving at the end of February and the position needs to be filled in the next few weeks. Please pray for the right person to fill this role within the CCI-UK team. 

CCI-UK concludes its Conference for Christian Centre managers. Please pray that the things learned and the relationships that have been developed would strengthen the work of Christian camping throughout the UK.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference this weekend (January 19-22) near Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain.  Please pray for a good time of learning, networking and encouragement.  Please also pray for two guests from Portugal who plan to attend.     

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

Several Associations hold training meetings, board meetings, or planning meeting in the next few weeks.  Please pray for wisdom and guidance for CCI-Philippines, CCI-New Zealand, CCI-Canada, CCI-Russia, CCI-Ukraine, and CCI-Spain.

In just over three months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Variable pay for performance, while it may seem attractive in theory, creates more problems than it solves. There’s no proof that it helps achieve its intended purposes, and other approaches not only work better but also strengthen employee loyalty.

Stop Tying Pay to Performance, Harvard Business Review, January-February 2012

During the Christmas holiday, our family put together a jigsaw puzzle. Aunts and uncles, cousins and grandmother all helped find border pieces, parts of the fireplace, Santa Claus’ red suit, and the popcorn strings on the Christmas tree.

Eventually the 1,000 scattered and disconnected parts came together to form a beautiful, unified picture. It wasn’t always easy and at times it was frustrating, but eventually the completed picture brought satisfaction to all who worked on the project. 

I’ve always been impressed that the list of Spiritual Gifts in Ephesians 4:11 (It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers) is preceded by seven ones that hold us together (There is one body and one Spirit . . . one hope . . . one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all. Ephesians 4:4-6a)

Our little part may seem insignificant, but without it, the puzzle would never be complete.  We may enjoy our unique design and feel it is more important than any other puzzle piece, but on our own we are of little value. God has created each of us with a unique design so that we can contribute our special part to the big picture He is creating.  Beauty and satisfaction are found when we do our part to add to the one, unified picture God is creating.

Don’t think too highly or too lowly of yourself.  Just make the contribution that God has designed for you and enjoy the big picture that He is creating. 

CCI-UK continues to seek the help of another part-time staff member.  A short-term helper will be leaving at the end of February, and the position needs to be filled in the next few weeks. Please pray for the right person to fill this role within the CCI-UK team. 

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Despite economic pressures, every room has been booked for this important conference.  Please pray for a wonderful time of sharing, training and encouragement.   

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and be beneficial to all who attend. 

A small group of CCI leaders will visit camping ministries in Portugal after the CCI-Spain conference.  Please pray that this would be an effective time of encouraging and networking with the more than 30 Christian camping ministries that have been identified in that country.    

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over three months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

A major Christian centre in the Netherlands is studying the possibility of acquiring an existing camp site that may otherwise be shut down. Please pray for wisdom and guidance in this possible acquisition.

Adults age 45-84 who attend religious services or other organized religious activities weekly are 62% more likely to be obese than those who never participate.

Go Figure, Christianity Today, January 2012

I stayed up until 11:00 PM local time on New Year’s Eve to watch the Ball Drop in New York City.  I’m not sure why. 

I am always puzzled by the excitement and enthusiasm associated with ringing in a new year.  I understand and appreciate the value of looking back, assessing the past, and learning from our mistakes.  I’m also big on peering down the road: planning, setting goals, and striving for accomplishment. 

The turn of a calendar does not make a New Year – it merely makes a Next Year.  Unless change, real change, God powered change, is involved, New Year’s Eve is just an excuse for a party to distract us from our problems and insignificance. 

Near the very end of the Bible John records, He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." (Revelation 21:5)

The human effort of resolutions can help us lose weight, read more, quit smoking or save money.  Parties can distract us from our pain and problems.   But only Christ can make things new. 

Let’s resolve to make Christian camps around the world places where God makes all things new in 2012. 

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22, in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over three months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  

Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray for the financial support needed as we enter this new year.

55 percent of (communication) effectiveness is based on nonverbal cues, such as facial expression.

The Wilson Learning Center, The Social Styles Handbook

A Slice of Fresh Bread

The Texas drought and forest fires have been big news over the past eight months. An absolute ban on outdoor burning had been in force since mid-summer.   No camp fires, no marshmallow roasts, and certainly no burning of leaves, limbs, and other debris; until a few weeks ago.

Recently, a storm rolled through dumping almost an inch of much needed rain.  The authorities celebrated by lifting the burn ban in our county giving me an opportunity to incinerate a big pile of brush that had accumulated over the past several months. Starting the fire was a bit of a challenge.  The matted pine needles, leaves, and debris were soaked by the downpour and needed some coaxing to ignite.  Eventually, with enough matches and lots of fanning, the pile burst into flame.

Paul uses the illustration of fire to encourage his young friend Timothy when he tells him, fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.  (2 Timothy 1:6)

Paul had entrusted Timothy with the truth of the gospel and wanted it to produce good works in his life and to be shared with others.  Timothy had the gift but needed to do the things that encouraged its growth from smoldering spark to blazing flame. 

For many, camp is the place where the spark of the gospel is fanned into flame.  In 2011 camp was a wonderful place where lives were set ablaze for God’s glory and purposes – campers and staff alike.  Let’s commit to keep the fire burning in our lives and in our camp ministries in 2012.

Prayer Requests

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just under five month (April 19-24, 2012), participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray that generous support would be provided during this Christmas season.
 

55 percent of (communication) effectiveness is based on nonverbal cues, such as facial expression.

The Wilson Learning Center, The Social Styles Handbook

A Slice of Fresh Bread

The Texas drought and forest fires have been big news over the past eight months. An absolute ban on outdoor burning had been in force since mid-summer.   No camp fires, no marshmallow roasts, and certainly no burning of leaves, limbs, and other debris; until a few weeks ago.

Recently, a storm rolled through dumping almost an inch of much needed rain.  The authorities celebrated by lifting the burn ban in our county giving me an opportunity to incinerate a big pile of brush that had accumulated over the past several months. Starting the fire was a bit of a challenge.  The matted pine needles, leaves, and debris were soaked by the downpour and needed some coaxing to ignite.  Eventually, with enough matches and lots of fanning, the pile burst into flame.

Paul uses the illustration of fire to encourage his young friend Timothy when he tells him, fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.  (2 Timothy 1:6)

Paul had entrusted Timothy with the truth of the gospel and wanted it to produce good works in his life and to be shared with others.  Timothy had the gift but needed to do the things that encouraged its growth from smoldering spark to blazing flame. 

For many, camp is the place where the spark of the gospel is fanned into flame.  In 2011 camp was a wonderful place where lives were set ablaze for God’s glory and purposes – campers and staff alike.  Let’s commit to keep the fire burning in our lives and in our camp ministries in 2012.

Prayer Requests

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just under five month (April 19-24, 2012), participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray that generous support would be provided during this Christmas season.
 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah, Bible, Isaiah 9:6

A Slice of Fresh Bread

[This is the final Advent Fresh Bread, and we will look at what the Gospel writer John had to say about why Jesus came to earth.] 

Throughout his Gospel, John refers to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved.  John’s identity was built upon his awareness of God’s love for him. He knew he was loved and that reality shaped John’s view of himself and his world. 

Our lives are not designed to be empty, they long to be full.  And they will be filled with something. John knew the joy and fulfillment of a life filled with the love of Jesus. 

When we lack satisfaction and peace, we can assume that our lives are empty or filled with the wrong things.  Money, pleasure, drugs, busyness, popularity, recognition, accomplishment, power, control, isolation, music, alcohol, cars, clothes, artistry, sports, even church, camp, and ministry can become artificial replacements for the love we all desire. 

John is the only gospel writer to record Jesus words: I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)   He knew Jesus’ love and it filled his life.  John’s three short epistles show how that love overflowed to others.  But before love changed John’s relationships, it changed his heart.  First and foremost, he was the disciple Jesus loved. 

What would be different if my primary perception of myself was I am the disciple that Jesus loves?  How would I treat others?  How would I spend my time and money? And how would I feel about the bumps and bruises on the pathway of life? 

Prayer Requests

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serve not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over five month (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event.  

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray that generous support would be provided during this Christmas season.

Remember that few are really interested in hearing or reading your organizational mission statement.  They want to know how that touches somebody.

John Fuller, The Power of a Story, Outcomes, Winter 2011

A Slice of Fresh Bread

[This is Advent, so for the four weeks leading up the Christmas, Fresh Bread will look at what the four gospel writers had to say about why Jesus came to earth.]

The only New Testament writer without a Jewish heritage was Luke. 

In Luke’s day, the world was divided Jews and Gentiles.  Even though the Jews wandered away from God time and time again, they remained His chosen people.  This unique relationship was based not on the Jews’ performance but upon God’s faithful and loving character.  And into this world stepped Jesus. 

No one was more lost than the Gentiles.  So, what does Luke record as the reason for Christ coming to earth?  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost. (Luke 19:10)  Jesus’ motivation to seek and save the lost marked Luke’s life and it should shape ours as well.

The more we understand our ‘lostness’ and our need for a seeking Savior, the more we find ourselves standing alongside Luke, marveling at the gift of the Christmas story. 

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over five months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Many CCI associations are struggling financially.  Please pray that generous support would be provided during this Christmas season.
 

 The only way to build a relationship is face-to-face. That’s human nature.

Ron Johnson, Retail Isn’t Broken. Stores Are.,  Harvard Business Review, December 2011

A Slice of Fresh Bread

[During these four weeks of Advent, Fresh Bread will look at what the four gospel writers had to say about why Jesus came to earth. Today we will look at Mark.] 

Mark apparently grew up in a wealthy family.  His parents’ home was large enough to house a prayer meeting for the early church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12), his cousin Barnabas (Colossians 4:10) gave the church a major gift (Acts 4:36-37), and he had the resources to do a brief ‘internship’ with Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25ff).

In Bible times, people with financial resources had servants to help with the daily routines of cleaning, cooking, and household chores.  Mark probably grew up with servants available to care for him and do his bidding.  Whether or not he had servants to ease the burdens of life for him, he knew servants and the role they played.  In his world, everyone wanted to have servants and no one aspired to be one!

Then Jesus entered his world.  As a young boy, what impressed Mark about Jesus?  What did he recall when he wrote his gospel? For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.  (Mark 10:45)

Jesus’ servant’s heart made an impact on Mark and shaped him for life.  Even though they had their differences, near the end of his life Paul says, Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. (2 Timothy 4:11)

What a great tribute to Mark!  What an example from Jesus’ life!  And what a challenge for us today!  Find someone to serve this Christmas season and extend the message that Jesus and Mark have given to us.

Prayer Requests

CCCA (USA) is holding its annual conference this week (Dec 5-9) at Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville, North Carolina.  Please pray for a wonderful time of learning, sharing, networking, and inspiration.

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting this weekend (Dec 9-10). Please pray for planning, preparation, and promotion for this event.

January 16-18 CCI-UK holds its Management Conference for Christian Centre managers throughout the UK. Please pray for the planning and preparation of this conference.

CCI-Spain holds its National Conference, January 19-22 in northwest Spain.  Please pray that this would be well attended and that guests from Portugal might be able to participate as well.   

CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference January 29-February 2. Please pray for the planning and promotion of this conference that serves not only Russian camping leaders but people from many countries in the former Soviet Union.

In just over five months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 
 

If we are pessimists and think we are capable of doing nothing in society today, I venture to say that we are theologically extremely unbalanced, if not heretical and harmful. It’s ludicrous to say Christianity can have no influence in society.

John R. W. Stott, Salt and Light: Four ways Christians can influence the world, Christianity Today, October 2011

A Slice of Fresh Bread

[This is Advent, so for the next four weeks, Fresh Bread will look at what the four gospel writers had to say about why Jesus came to earth.]  

Matthew was a tax-collector.  Even though this was a get-rich occupation, it had two drawbacks.  First, many Jews saw tax-collectors as traitors aligning with the Roman occupiers. Second, they were seen as morally bankrupt, doing whatever they could to gouge their countrymen. Tax-collectors were wealthy but not well liked.

But Jesus entered Matthew’s world.  The story is very limited; apparently Jesus simply said, Follow me, and Matthew left his lucrative career and became one of Jesus’ twelve disciples.  (Matthew 9:9)

Matthew’s background gave him a unique and powerful vantage point from which to observe Jesus for the next three years.  Later, as he penned his Gospel, he recalled a comment that none of the other gospel writers included.  He records Jesus’ words, For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.  (Matthew 9:13)

Matthew never forgot his sinful background, he never forgot why Jesus came into this world, and he never stopped sharing that message of love and forgiveness with the people he encountered. 

Matthew’s pattern is a wonderful reminder for all of us as we enter this Christmas season and as we serve him every day of the year.
 

Prayer Requests

Weep with those who weep - Alice Whitelock, (USA) passed away last Thursday, Thanksgiving Day.  Bert Van Weegal (Australia) passed away on November 27th.  Please pray for their families and friends during this time of grief.  

CCCA (USA) will hold its annual conference next week at Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville, North Carolina.  Please pray for good attendance, effective training, and supportive networking.

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation, and promotion for this event.

In January CCI-UK holds its Management Conference (16-18), CCI-Spain holds its National Conference (19-22), and CCI-Russia holds its Christian Camping Leaders Conference (29-February 2). Please pray for the planning and promotion of these important events.

In just over six months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 
 

Unrealistic expectations compel thousands of contestants who cannot sing to try out for American Idol every season and be genuinely surprised when they do not make the cut.

John Koessler, Disappointment with Intimacy, Christianity Today, November 2011

A Slice of Fresh Bread

Many cultures have a Thanksgiving Holiday, and in the United States that celebration is this week.  A few days each year are set aside for reflection and appreciation for the many blessings God has provided. 

Even though this American holiday has degenerated into a shopping frenzy and non-stop football, the core of the celebration revolves around family, friends, and feasting. 

Three times a year, the Children of Israel were commanded to gather in Jerusalem for feasts.  Three times a year you are to celebrate a festival to me. (Exodus 23:14)  These were times to reconnect with extended family and friends, enjoy an abundance of food, and focus on God, the provider.

The command to assemble in Jerusalem brought them close to the Lord whose presence resided in the Temple.  Their celebration was worship and their worship was celebration.  Three weeks a year were set aside for a holiday to remember God’s activity and blessing in their lives.

Enjoy the games, shop the sales, take pleasure in the meal, spend time with family and friends but remember the purpose of this break from routines and responsibilities.  The Israelites drew near to God with grateful hearts and so should we.
 

Prayer Requests

November 25-26, CCI-Romania will hold a Camp Directors’ Meeting.  Please pray for the planning and promotion of this gathering.

CCI-Philippines will hold a training event entitled: Leading Transformative Camping  November 28-29.  Please pray for the success of this important event.     

CCCA (USA) will hold its national conference at Ridgecrest, NC, Dec 5-8.  Please pray for good attendance and a beneficial experience for all who participate.

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation and promotion for this event.

In just over six month (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Segovia is a majestic, Spanish city, about 50 miles from Madrid and about 90 minutes from Pinos Reales, where CCI will hold its next Worldwide Summit, April 19-24, 2012.  The beauty of the city is matched only by its historical significance.  Three significant architectural wonders dominate the landscape.

First, the Roman aqueduct is magnificent.  Before Paul is thought to have visited Spain, the Romans had observed the strategic significance of Segovia’s central location.  They not only strengthened the walls and fortification, they also built a massive aqueduct.  Built with massive stones and no mortar, this engineering and construction fete supplied water to the core of the city for nearly 2,000 years. 

Second, the Castle (Alcazar) is another marvelous structure with a deep mote and high walls.  Originally built by the Arab invaders in the 1100s, the wooden castle was replaced with the massive stone building in the 13th century.  In 1474, Isabella was crowned Queen in this castle.   Legend says that later Isabel courageously ousted a notorious mayor earning her the love and admiration of the citizens. Isabella and her husband Ferdinand are known for unifying Spain, commissioning Columbus on his voyages to the “New World”, driving the Moors from Western Europe, and launching the Spanish Armada.

Third, Segovia is also the home of a splendid and ornate cathedral.  Begun in 1525 and finished in 1577, this cathedral is a wonderful representation of the late Gothic period architecture (at least that is what they tell me – I just thought it looked really, really cool!) 

Three architectural wonders -- for civil works, for military and political power, and for religious significance, make Segovia a beautiful, interesting, and important Spanish city.  I’m glad my hiking boots took me to this amazing location.  I hope they bring me back for a return visit next April.

BELOW: Esfahan, Dave, Juan, and Manuel
CCI-Spain leaders

Many doctrinal statements affirm what the church believes.  We wish to go further and to link belief with praxis.  Our model is the Apostle Paul . . . in Colossians his profound and wonderful portrayal of the supremacy of Christ issues in down-to-earth teaching on what it means to be rooted in Christ.

S. Douglas Birdsall and Lindsey Brown, The Cape Town Commitment:  A Confession of Faith and a Call to Action

A Slice of Fresh Bread

I carried my raincoat all over Europe.  The forecast predicted rain every third day in November so I thought it was a good decision to bring it along.  Most days were magnificent:  cool, sunny, brisk, a few clouds -- but no rain. 

A few drops greeted us as we began a tour of a campsite in Spain, but most of the sky was clear.  Drops turned to drizzle and by the time we reached the farthest corner of the grounds, the rain started in earnest.  Unfortunately my “good-decision” was still packed in my suitcase back in my room.

Raincoats only work when we put them on; and there are a host of spiritual qualities that will benefit us and others only when we put them on.  In Colossians 3:12, 14 Paul tells us to, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Way too often I leave my kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love in the suitcase back in my room. I need to put them on for them to benefit me and those I meet. 

The more I wear these Christ-like qualities, the more comfortable they feel.  Camp is a great place to try them on and to allow them to become a comfortable fit.  Start a fashion statement in your home, camp, church, school, or neighborhood by wearing the spiritual qualities you want to see on others. 

Prayer Requests

Lloyd Mattson, long-time USA Christian camping leader and author of numerous books on Christian camping underwent cancer surgery last week.  Please pray for his speedy and complete recovery.

CCI-Mexico holds is national conference November 18-21.  Please pray for the leaders of CCI-Mexico as they work to finalize the plans for this event and that it is a great time of training, encouragement, and inspiration. 

CCI-leaders from throughout Latin America will meet in parallel with the CCI-Mexico conference for planning and strategy sessions.  Pray for wisdom and direction during this meeting.

November 25-26, CCI-Romania will hold a Camp Directors’ Meeting.  Please pray for the planning and promotion of this gathering.

CCI-Philippines will hold a training event entitled: Leading Transformative Camping November 28-29.  Please pray for the success of this important event.     

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation and promotion for this event.

In just over six months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

The world intersects at the Amsterdam airport:  languages, races, dress, odors, and currencies comingle in a fascinating, colorful, exotic cultural mixing bowl.

In the midst of this human cacophony is an unmistakable landmark called the Meeting Point.  Large, red and white blocks and checkerboard walls surrounded by restaurants, shops, and train access portals mark a natural place for arriving travelers and their hosts to connect. 

The Meeting Point worked and Gert, a volunteer from our host camp, de Betteld, soon had Cay and me and our luggage in a van heading toward Zelhem, 90 minutes east of Amsterdam.

Gerhard and Anita Hobelman were wonderful hosts – great food, comfortable accommodations, and warm conversation.

The next morning we traveled an hour by car to a meeting of the CCI-Netherlands board and membership.  About 30 members addressed typical business meeting issues:  reports, minutes, budgets, and strategies.  Jet lag caught me, but a helpful translator helped me stay up with the details.

Fortunately, there were three key issues that my translator could coach me through well enough to grasp their significance.  First I was moved by the presence of the widow of a former CCI-Netherlands Board Member who lost his life a few months ago in a tragic drowning.  The group reached out with love, comfort, support and encouragement. It was more than a professional meeting – much more a family gathering.

Second, due in part to this untimely death, and also because of the resignation of another Board Member over medical concerns, only two people remained on the Board to shoulder the entire responsibility.   In response to a plea for help, four new members volunteered to serve on the Board of Directors. 

Third, I was fascinated that the meeting was attended by Dutch camping leaders who operate Christian centers not only in their home country but also in Luxemburg, France, and Sweden.  I learned that Dutch Christian camping leaders also operate centers in Germany, Belgium, and the Czech Republic. 

My visit to CCI-Netherlands reminded me of what is taking place in our associations around the world:  1) the love and support of a caring community,  2) The sacrifices of many who lead and manage the Association’s work,  3) The commitment to reach beyond local boarders and extend the impact of CCI around the world.

I believe that the gospel – the good news of Christ crucified in our place to remove the wrath of God and provide forgiveness of sins and power for sanctification – is our only hope for any kind of racial diversity and harmony that ultimately matters.

John Piper, Bloodlines

A Slice of Fresh Bread

I recently visited a camp with a beautiful, large gymnasium and recreation building.  Once inside, a few problems were evident: cracks in the walls, leaks in the ceiling, and waves in the floor.

The problem, I learned, was quite basic, the building had been constructed on two foundations -- the natural soil as well as dirt added to level the construction site.  The new soil was not properly prepared, and the weight of the structure overwhelmed the faulty base.

Early in his Book, James challenges his readers to pray with unwavering faith.  He says, A double minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8).  The root word for ‘double minded’ means to have two souls.  Two souls, like two soils, create an unstable foundation; unsuited for a strong and productive life.

One seamless foundation is what we need.  God wants us to have a life that is build on Him, and Him alone.  He wants us to have unwavering faith in who He is and what He is doing in our behalf. 
 

Prayer Requests

November 8-10 CCI-Japan will hold its national conference at Torchbearers-Yamanakako. Please pray for the preparation for this event.  During this conference Hideki Tanazawa will be honored for 25 years of service to Christian camping in Japan.  He is the former chairman of the board of CCI-Japan.

CCI-Mexico holds is national conference November 18-21.  Please pray for the leaders of CCI-Mexico as they work to finalize the plans for this event and that it is a great time of training, encouragement and inspiration. 

CCI leaders from throughout Latin America will meet in parallel with the CCI-Mexico conference for planning and strategy sessions.  Pray for wisdom and direction during this meeting.

November 25-26, CCI-Romania will hold a Camp Directors’ Meeting.  Please pray for the planning and promotion of this gathering.

CCI-Philippines will hold a training event entitled: Leading Transformative Camping  November 28-29.  Please pray for the success of this important event.     

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation, and promotion for this event.

In just over six months (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event. 

Too many leaders suffer from too few or undernourished friendships.  Having good friends help leaders cope with every leadership issue they face – from everyday stress to the need for confidants.

Reggie McNeal, The Art of Finishing Well, Outcomes, Fall 2011

A Slice of Fresh Bread

A small city in Ohio, USA, was terrorized when a disgruntled and despondent 62 year old man released his collection of over 50 wild animals and then killed himself.  Lions, tiger, bears, wolves, and other exotic animals roamed the streets of the city terrorizing the populace.  Local authorities eventually killed or tranquilized all of the dangerous beasts before anyone else was injured.

One can only imagine the pain and anger in a person’s life that would lead to such violent, destructive and sociopathic behavior.  I have no inside information as to why he lashed out at the people of his city and then took his own life, but I do know the old saying to be very true -- Hurt people, hurt people. 

We are all hurt people.  We all have pain in our pasts and baggage that seems to follow us through life.  But we do not all react in destructive or dramatic ways. 

I’m just guessing that he was carrying his problems all by himself.  Whether his friends had abandoned him or if he had driven them away, he gives the signs of a person who had no one to turn to for stability or support.

The simple command of Galatians 6:2 says, Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. We never know what is truly happening inside the heart of a person weighed down with life’s burdens.  But we do know that a helping hand can help immeasurably.  

Prayer Requests

 November 8-10 CCI-Japan will hold its national conference at Torchbearers-Yamanakako. Please pray for the preparation for this event.  During this conference Hideki Tanazawa will be honored for 25 years of service to Christian camping in Japan.  He is the former chairman of the board of CCI-Japan.

CCI-Mexico holds is national conference November 18-21.  Please pray for the leaders of CCI-Mexico as they work to finalize the plans for this event and that it is a great time of training, encouragement and inspiration. 

CCI-leaders from throughout Latin America will meet in parallel with the CCI-Mexico conference for planning and strategy sessions.  Pray for wisdom and direction during this meeting.

November 25-26, CCI-Romania will hold a Camp Directors’ Meeting.  Please pray for the planning and promotion of this gathering.

CCI-Philippines will hold a training event entitled: Leading Transformative Camping  November 28-29.  Please pray for the success of this important event.     

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation and promotion for this event.

 In just over six month (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the CCI-Worldwide Summit.  Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event.

About 15 years ago, a pastor friend called and asked me to meet with a man in his city who wanted to start a camp.  I reluctantly agreed to drive seven hours into the heart of Texas to kick dirt, dream dreams, and pray that God would make His plans clear. 

The site was stunning.  The headwaters of the crystal clear Nueces River, over a mile of river frontage, unique cliffs and rock formations, 1,400 acres of rugged West Texas wilderness, billions of stars, and a few dilapidated buildings that once had been the corporate playground of a now defunct business giant. 

I’ve intersected with the development of Camp Eagle several times over the past 15 years, but I had not been on the ground since 2007.  A lot has changed in the past five years: new buildings, effective programs, skilled staff, focused resources, and clear mission.           

Years ago, I learned (not original with me but not sure of the source) that there are four critical elements in every successful non-profit organization:  1) a clear purpose/mission/vision; 2) a strong, active, healthy board of directors; 3) a leader who embodies the values of the organization; 4) the ability to attract human and financial resources – people and money!

I would add a fifth – the grace of God!

Sometimes we do all the right things, yet we have the ministry of Jeremiah.  His calling was to minister faithfully his whole life only to experience pain and see little or no success by human standards.  But sometimes we are called to serve like Nehemiah.  He was blessed to see God use his efforts to rebuild, restore, and to lay the groundwork for revival. 

Whether in the good times or tough times, it is remarkable to see God’s hand at work over the long-haul.  I love visiting camps but really love revisiting them and seeing God’s plans worked out in His time and in His way.

Often his greatest and most satisfying answer to my prayer is simply his strengthening presence.

Don Goehner, My Journey to Hope

A Slice of Fresh Bread

I recently heard a news report about a family that got so turned around in a corn maze that they called 911 for the police to rescue them. Eventually the police, a tracking dog, and the corn maze manager located the bewildered family and led then to the exit.

Sometimes life leaves us confused; not knowing what direction we should head. And sometimes we know the right path, but we choose to go in the opposite direction.

The people of Jeremiah’s day were confused, and they were rebellious. They knew the pathway they should follow, but they were determined to walk away from God. Jeremiah said, This is what the Lord says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, 'We will not walk in it.'” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Maybe you are in the “Corn Maze of Life” -- confused, frustrated, scared, and angry. Maybe you are looking for direction but uncertain as to which way to head. Or maybe you know the way out and refuse to follow the pathway God has set before you.

Jeremiah’s message is simple and profound. Go back to the ancient pathways; ten simple yet profound directives for life found in Exodus 20:3-17. Methods must be ever changing, modified, and improved. But the basic beliefs, values, and directives that shape our behavior, attitudes, and relationships must never change.

Prayer Requests

CCI-Philippines will hold two training events called Leading Transformative Camping scheduled for October 30 and November 28-29. Please pray for the success of these two important events.    

CCI-Netherlands holds its annual Board Meeting November 1. Please pray for wisdom and direction during this strategic meeting.

November 8-10 CCI-Japan will hold its national conference at Torchbearers-Yamanakako. Please pray for the preparation for this event. During this conference Hideki Tanazawa will be honored for 25 years of service to Christian camping in Japan. He is the former chairman of the board of CCI-Japan.

CCI-Mexico holds its national conference November 18-21. Please pray for the leaders of CCI-Mexico as they work to finalize the plans for this event and that it is a great time of training, encouragement, and inspiration.

CCI-leaders from throughout Latin America will meet in parallel with the CCI-Mexico conference for planning and strategy sessions. Pray for wisdom and direction during this meeting.

CCI-Korea will hold its General Meeting December 9-10. Please pray for planning, preparation and promotion for this event.

In just over six month (April 19-24, 2012) participants from around the world will meet at Pinos Reales, a Christian camp near Madrid, for the

CCI-Worldwide Summit. Please pray for the preparations and funding for this major training and planning event.

Last week, Cay and I were privileged to join 18 Texas Christian camp directors at Camp Eagle near Rocksprings, Texas for three days of fellowship, devotions, sharing, prayer, late-night conversations, good food, relaxation, and planning. 

I have known some of the people around the table for over 20 years; others became new friends. Some were enjoying seasons of peace and blessing while others were struggling and discouraged. Some were young, just starting into the Christian camping ministry; others have spent a lifetime serving the Lord at camp. 
 

The directors came from camps that were big and small, denominationally affiliated, independent, and privately owned. Some drove eight hours or more to attend. The common bonds uniting the group were their love for Christ and their love for Christian camping.

We explored the twin challenges of rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep (Romans 12:15). And we spent time discussing professional challenges and opportunities of importance to the whole group. As joys, successes, and achievements were shared, there was a true sense of rejoicing within the group; no envy was evident. When the conversation turned to hurts, struggles and failures, the group united around the ones in pain.

The writer of the Book of Hebrews probably didn’t have Christian camp directors in mind when this warning was penned; Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). But Christian camp directors, more than most, seem to need, enjoy, and benefit from time away, sharing from God’s Word, building relationships, reveling in the beauty of God’s creation.

Camp for the camp directors – what a great idea!