As promised here is my personal account from the two camps we assisted at two camps hosted by Higher Grounds. This incredible organization focuses on ensuring that campers are encouraged and provide life-changing opportunities for them to grow in their relationship with Christ and as independent individuals.
The first camp was geared toward people with intellectual impairments, such as down syndrome, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. In appearance you can tell that there was something different about them, but they quickly prove to the world that they are simply just people. We had some who loved to sing, rap, dance, play sports, do puzzles, and simply just crack jokes and laugh. They were kind, compassionate, funny, and intelligent. Once you knew how to communicate and assist with their personal needs appropriately their personalities and abilities took the stage.
People who have acquired brain injuries attended the second camp. It was incredible to hear how their lives have change since their strokes or accidents. They were very positive, friendly, and wise. I very rarely, heard a negative comment about their situations. Yes, it may have been inconvenient at times but they have learned to cope and simply accept it. God is still moving in their lives and helping them grow in their faith.
One of the most amazing and miraculous testimonies I’ve heard has encouraged me to continuously face my fears and challenges. Dee was a busy, devoted hair dresser since 1966. There was never day that she didn’t feeling like going to work. In 2009, she was taking a break at work and suddenly was experiencing a stroke. The stroke since then has made her wheelchair bound and her right side paralyzed. On Thursday, January 20, she spoke out that she felt the Lord calling her to walk. That night she boldly took 30 steps on her own. Since then she has been set for leg braces that have increased her mobility. Although she is still anxious, she knows that God is faithful.
Would I still serve God through the trials? I hope the answer would be yes but I cannot say that would be the only option. Dee’s story and many others have been such an encouragement and reminder to continuously keep the faith, knowing God has everything in control even when you are faced with an overwhelming obstacle. We are only entitled to serve God, no matter what the cost.
Many times as Christians we take the back seat and aren’t as willing to take the extra steps of faith needed to grow. God can challenge us and it’s completely our choice to either accept or deny the challenge. If we accept the challenge, success, based on human standards, is not guaranteed; however, God will never leave us nor forsake us.
For more information about Higher Ground visit: http://www.higherground.org.za/
