Big stretches started our day. Morning warm-ups helped prepare the campers for the big day ahead.
Today’s Hebrew moment (when we highlight an aspect of Jewish culture) focused on Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish agricultural holiday celebrating the trees. Connecting this holiday with our theme of the parables was powerful. Trees in Israel are vital to the agricultural health of the community. They bring nutrients to the soil, shade from the heat of the sun, and produce to feed the masses. When we look at how prevalent trees are in Scripture, we start to notice them everywhere! It was also on a tree where Yeshua paid the penalty of our sin, and His resurrection guarantees us access to the tree of life!
Campers were eager for their morning rotations, which included horseback riding, street hockey, the challenge course, and an apologetics class on defending our faith. The classroom proved to be a crucial time of thinking through some very big topics such as doubt and the problem of evil. When discussing the big bang theory and how God is without origin, one boy raised his hand to comment, “This makes my brain hurt!” Yes, developing critical thinking skills can! By the end of the class, so many campers felt encouraged and inspired, even asking for another class later this week!
After lunch, our daily sabbath time was a time to rest up and practice memory verses. The color war is in full swing with each camper knowing their memory verse contributes to the points to bring a win for their team. This evening’s Mishkan (chapel) service proved one verse set the cream cheese team ahead, and they were able to “pie” a counselor of their choosing! Giggles erupted as counselors braced themselves for impact.
Our evening concluded with a pajama party and movie night with popcorn. Campers stretched out in the air-conditioned room and enjoyed The Emperor’s New Groove. It was another great day in the books!
