Meet the Maintenance crew at the church camp this summer. One’s a marine, one’s a geologist, one’s a draftsman in architecture, and the other is in wildlife ecology. The old guy,……..well that’s me. I had the privilege of BEING and working with these guys for part of this summer. I’ve come away with a better feeling of what the future holds.
These young men came ready to work,…….. and work hard is what they did. They would jump through a fire if it would have been asked of them. They jumped in the cold creek to clean out debris and improve the habitat for the trout. They danced……. yep they danced alright ,…….. with weed eaters, chainsaws, axes, shovels. (I think there was a little time for dancing with the girls on western dance night. 😉 ) They worked in rugged mountain terrain, under cabins, in the horse lots, and the cafeteria lines. They worked.
What impressed me most? Did I say how hard they worked? Let me fill you in on a little secret. We used chainsaws and weed eaters on acres of property. Impressive they were. But what I saw in these guys gave me such a bigger and better hope in the future. I saw young men being positive in how they viewed life. I saw young men seeking the true Christian journey for themselves and others. I saw such potential in all these guys. Not just possessing a good work ethic, but possessing something that is so needed in today’s world…….. A positive outlook on life…… and they have that because Jesus is their main focus.
1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
To everyone reading this let me say this…….. It truly was a joy, honor, and privilege to work with these young guys, and I do mean work. The future looks so much brighter now that I have seen some of the next generation in action. These guys (and so many more like them) will be daily setting an example to others of the true Christian walk.
To the guys let me share this……. Each of you guys possess gifts from God that each of you will learn more and more how to use. You had my back several times out there working. You made me look good! But know this, I’ve got your back as well. When you need a reference on that resume for the job you’re looking for………….. you’ve got a great one coming from me. Just say the word!
Know this as well my friends. God’s got your back as well. He’s always there to help you. Ask Him for the right words to say, for the directions to go in your life, and to guide you on your journey with Him………… and keep dancing!
“Dear Jesus, I thank you that these guys (and other young people in camp) were a part of my life for just a few weeks. They helped me “come alive” as I travel my own journey helping others “come alive”. Be with them as they move into their next chapter of life. Give them direction, show them Your love, let them see Your Power. I’ve got a feeling that they will be using it for Your Glory and Honor Lord. Amen”
See Ya! Dan Ainsworth wilderness preacher, groundskeeper, part time dancer