Extravagant Love

Ten college students sat in a circle last Monday night, talking about the idea of "extravagant love".

I am the youngest of those ten; each of my teammates coming from their second or third year of college to dedicate their summer to Camp Summit. We all came in to the week of training with very little idea of what we were getting in to. Sure, we knew we would be counselors for a camp that opened up to inner city kids - but most of us didn't know what that even looked like. We didn't know each other, and we certainly didn't know what to expect. But as the week went on, all of us began to see just how much of an impact we could make in the lives of young kids simply by loving them extravagantly. 

Define "extravagant": Going beyond a normal or acceptable limit in degree or amount [Merriam-Webster Dictionary and Thesaurus] 

Define "love" : Unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another 

[Merriam-Webster Dictionary and Thesaurus]

That's pretty much it. As counselors, we discussed how best to reach these kids where they are - and I'll give you an idea of that later - and we all agreed that the best thing we can do is to reach these kids with unselfish, loyal concern that goes beyond society's accepted norm for love. To love them continuously, without regard for our own personal emotions, and show them that we care for who they are where they are at. Only when they see that we love them, will we be able to show them how much God loves them. 

So, where are these kids coming from? Let me tell you.

Many of these children don't know what it feels like to have three meals a day - some show up having only eaten one meal the day before, and nothing since. Nearly all of these kids come to Camp because their parents need a 'week off' - a chance to do what they want without a little person getting in the way. Several of them are victims of sexual abuse, rape, physical and verbal abuse, who need a way to come out of the situation and heal. Yes, you should know that all of this is happening right here - not just in the slums of a third world country, but here in our towns in our neighborhoods. Camp Summit is open to any kid who wants to come, free of charge through the generous donors and support raised by the staff; these kids are driven out to camp for a week away from the stress of their home lives, surrounded by nothing but the love of Jesus and opportunities to explore their talents and gifts.

On Tuesday, my team and I had the opportunity to lead a day camp - without being allowed to speak of Christ or promote Camp, as it was purely a day of fun - for about 100 second grade students from a local public elementary. I lead story time, and my teammates split into activities like crafts, rock wall, and basketball. 

These kids were hysterical! Each one was unique and totally animated; loving on them was an easy thing to do. There was laughter every where in the building, and I can't help but smile as I remember how much the children loved listening to "Charlie the Caterpillar" (honestly, I never got tired of reading it either!). Later in the week, my teammates and I received thank you letters from each of the kids. My heart overflowed, and many of us began tearing up as we heard the words children had written:

 "I want to be a counselor someday"

"Thank you for inviting us"

"You never let me give up, and I am so happy I made it through the rock wall!"

Dozens of the kids came to their teachers the next day asking for permission slips to go to camp; they all saw love in us, and it ignited in them a desire for more. My team and I were so encouraged by this show of excitement in response to something we viewed as small - we showed love to these kids, and they soaked it all up. It was just a taste of the opportunities we will have throughout the rest of the summer, but what a taste! 

As we move throughout the next nine weeks of ministry I ask that all of you come along side us in prayers for extravagant love. I am praying for you as well; that you might have opportunities and courage enough to show extravagant love to those in your life. You will never realize the impact in can make in a life. 

With All His Love,

Bekah S.