Rose Park Family,
I think it’s fair to say that gratitude is something we strive to pass on to the next generation. We seriously undervalue the importance and meaning of a simple ‘thank you.’ These words have profound impact not only on our immediate circles of influence but also the greater Kingdom of God.
The words below are from one of our beloved students, Charlie Duistermars. Charlie attended Camp Geneva last week and simply wanted to say ‘thank you’ to his Rose Park Family.
I just wanted to tell you all how much I appreciate you supporting me in one of the most important and memorable times of my life. Thank you for your financial and prayerful support for Graham, Blakely, myself, and any other kids from Rose Park who may have attended Camp Geneva. You would probably like to also know that it worked and that I had a blast there. I love Camp Geneva because it combines three of my favorite things: worship, music, and socializing. One of the best parts of my week at camp was consecration: a special service on Wednesday night where we get to worship God, hear a message Chaplain Tom, and have a special one on one time with our counselor.
As you already know Geneva sticks out from most other summer camps because it is a Christian based camp. For me, they turn a school bible lesson into an hour and a half filled with songs and skits that more often than not kids don't want to end. I also had a very important bible study explaining to me that Jesus is waiting for us to open a door and when we do, He will will come be with us in our lives. I thought about this and now it will be applied to my life. Thank you so much and I’ll see you next Sunday.
It warms my heart to hear Charlie’s words, but they also encourage me to continue pursuing God’s call for my life. The ministry we are doing here at Rose Park matters and it is bearing fruit. We might not see that fruit at every single worship service or gathering, but the Spirit of God is working in powerful ways through all the members of God’s family.
It’s my hope and prayer that we might be inspired by Charlie’s words to pass on our gratitude to those around us, but that we might also be encouraged to continue the pursuit of connecting the disconnected, empowering the connected, and reconciling all things to God.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Mark