"Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them. (Matthew 4:2)
This July I was blessed to be able to represent Bishop Deborah at Lutheran Camp Formation, the confirmation camp program we hold here in the Grand Canyon Synod. One week up in Prescott, away from the heat of the summer and the daily rhythms of the world, 100 campers, councilors, and adult leaders gathered on the mountaintop to experience Jesus. Six members of St. John's were up on the mountain with me.
Pictured left to right Aiden, Zoey, Paul, me, Deven, Casey, and Trey. The statue we are surrounding joined us for our daily "church hour" where we asked each other our highs, lows, joys, and concerns. I assume he is someone from Nevada. I am thankful for every single one of our members, and especially thankful I was able to get to know these six wonderful leaders who will be serving in our church for generations to come. You may be asking, why in the world is Aiden wearing bunny ears? Because it is Easter! Christ is Risen!
Each day at Lutheran Camp Formation a different church season: Monday we entered the year waiting through Advent & then sang Joy to the World on Tuesday for Christmas!
Then Wednesday we walked through Lent by nailing our distractions to the cross, to then celebrate all day on Easter Thursday!
While I had to head back early to Glendale for our shower ministry at St. John's, the campers were sent forth on Friday with the fire of Pentecost burning in their hearts!
May God bless each of us who can see Jesus clearly on the mountaintop, but find it difficult to see Jesus when they are down in the valley. May God sustain us and may the Holy Spirit fill our hearts, so that we may remember we are believed and we are not alone. Amen.
Pastor Dan
Associate Pastor for Outreach
St. John's Lutheran Church, Glendale, AZ
Comments