I was changed so much at camp and lot of life changing moments were Jimmy’s favorite times of camp. Jimmy was camp director and ALL of camp was planned to prepare us for the next year of our life. There was a lot of unknown and a lot of moments that we were not sure we wanted to make it to the next session or event. There were times I was so emotionally and physically drained that I was not sure I could go on. I learned that I had to let go of control and allow God to have control. I had to LEARN TO UNLEARN. It did not take me long to learn that when Jimmy announced something as his favorite it was fixing to change me forever. Jimmy may not even realize that he does this but I got to the point I looked forward to him saying this is my favorite because I knew God was really going to do some amazing things in us that day or night through that time. I knew that it may not be easy and it may be emotionally draining but it was very worth it.
Jimmy’s favorite game is the game that changed my heart forever. I love to play games and I’m so competitive (ok maybe to competitive) and I wanted to play this game and win. I gave it my all and then I realized what this game was truly about for me personally. My heart had never been so broken as that night. I was laying face down in the rocks and being yelled at then laying on the boards and hearing others going through what I just had been through. I then in that moment realized I had never cared about those who risk their life daily by being a Christian and bringing kingdom to those who have never heard who JESUS is. I until that night never realized that I may be in a situation that puts my life in danger because I am a Christian. I never thought about what I really would do if I was put in danger! Would I stand strong and continue to Praise God? After the game was over we all were in a huge a circle and emotions flooded me. We then all realized this game was actually a simulation of the life of people in the underground church. We will be going to several closed countries and this was an important night to help all of us realize what really goes on in these countries. I had a lot of emotions and was not sure how to handle them.
I needed to process and I was not even sure how. I did not know what was wrong! I was angry, hurt, confused, scared, and frustrated. I felt so ashamed for never caring and praying for those who do face danger every time they share Christ with someone. I soon found Laura and we began to talk. We had an awesome talk and I realized my heart was broken for these people all over who risk their life but they continue to spread the word of God to those who need to hear it. They do not do it for the thrill of danger but because of the danger of those who have never heard who Jesus is before. I realized that I do care for these people and my heart breaks for them. I am praying that I am strong and if I am ever put in a situation that I will continue to Praise God no matter how bad the situation gets. I pray that no matter the outcome of the situation that i remember that He is still God.
I am warning you now that if you ever hear Jimmy say, “THIS IS MY FAVORITE!” it is more than likely going to change your life and be something you will never forget. I will have to admit I would love to hear him say that right now!
