58 days until launch to training camp.
Right now, I’m sitting on the back porch at the camp I’m working at this summer. This is one of the first times in a while that I’ve been able to just sit back and chill. It’s actually kind of quiet. Woah. This time of relaxation has really allowed me to think back and ponder all that has occurred so far this summer. Thus far, this summer has been pretty challenging spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. As some or most of you might already know, I’m working at a Christian camp in the great mountain town of Divide, CO. My main job is being an on-call “nurse,” but I also am involved with the lovely job of cleaning, cleaning, and more cleaning, as well as some programming (for ziplining and such). Now there are so many things I love about working here, but then, like most jobs, there are things that are really hard not to complain about. It’s honestly hard to believe that you’re making a difference and good impact when you’re cleaning a toilet. Sometimes I do ask myself, “what in the bloomin’ world am I doing here?” There have been times where I have been bitter or just not been happy about what I’m doing. It has gotten to the point that I’ve realized I’ve also been kinda victimizing myself, feeling bad for myself. I have been making me the main focus when me isn’t what the focus should be on. So what should the focus be on?
Jesus. I bet you weren’t expecting THAT. But it is so very true, and not only should the focus be on Him but the people here, kids and all, that we have been pouring into. It is AMAZING how much things can change when you put your focus back on God. All the bitterness and complaining turns into contentment and thankfulness. I have noticed that no matter what I’m doing, when I give my day to Jesus and remember to keep my focus on him, my day is full of peace, joy, and many miracles (even if they’re small). I have found that remembering to thank God for everything in my day, good or bad, big or small, fills me with even more joy and love. Which then, as a result, allows me to share that joy and love with everyone around me. And through other people experiencing that, hopefully they also can see the hope and life they can have through and with Christ Jesus. So, THANK THE LORD FOR THAT TOILET. I’m not saying this is at all easy, in fact it is totally NOT. Though I have known these truths for awhile, it is taking me forever to put them into practice. However, I know that putting these things into practice will just make me spiritually stronger.
So, this summer has been a challenge in almost every way (and to think that I thought it was going to be easy.) And in about 2 months, I’ll be heading off to a total different country which will most likely be even more of a challenge. However, I am soo thankful I’m here at camp because I think this experience is in turn, helping me to prepare for this new upcoming adventure. God has been blessing me in so many ways, one of those ways being through those who have been supporting me through prayer, funds, and encouraging words. Thank you to everyone for all your partnership and support. As of now, I am about 75% of the way to reaching my goal of $5300! What a blessing! If you feel called to give, you can just click the donate button on my page which should take you to the main donation page for my fund. Also, you can click the subscribe button to keep up to date on my life and this upcoming adventure! Thanks for reading!
Blessings,
April Johns
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” – Psalm 28:7
