Fabulous First

Hi, my name is Shelina. My exposure to blogging is limited…perhaps that is an understatement. I have rarely read blogs and definitely never written one. “So why did they pick her for this job?” you might be wondering. Well, it’s because Sunset Lake is a place for adventures, growing, and new opportunities. And so I begin my first blog.

The “firsts” of our lives are often moments that shape us forever. From little things, like trying a Paw-Paw fruit, to more significant, like the first time I preached a sermon, new experiences are bright spots in our lives. Sunset Lake is where I first got up on a wakeboard. Within minutes of my triumphant water flight the entire staff knew of my success; how could I not share the thrill? The exhilaration of firsts is irreplaceable.

Adventure Camp was a week of new experiences for staff and campers alike. Caitlin taught her first class of basketry. Michael braved his first week away from home. And thirteen campers left Sunset with a very special first, their first Bible.  

Leading Bible study this week, I was blown away by the excitement of some of the kids. I found that for many children the Bible Study brought firsts. New stories were enthusiastically received, from the fiery furnace to Nehemiah. Friday night the play depicted Paul’s story. Staff had been working hard and planning all week for this special night and with a heavy bout of rain expectations seemed dashed. The play had to be quickly relocated inside, and with the change things did not run as smoothly as had been hoped.

One of God’s first lessons for us at camp happened that night. When the play closed campers were invited to come to the feet of Jesus. Campers flocked to the front kneeling at the cross to give their lives to God. The play had not gone as perfect as planned but God taught us that His Spirit can more than make up for our short comings. Looking around at the sincerely bowed heads I thought of all the firsts that week, first canoe ride, first time riding a horse or climbing a wall… so many firsts. But at that moment I was privileged enough to witness the most important first of all, giving your life to God. It was an incredible beginning to what will be a wonderful summer here, at Sunset Lake.