Thanksgiving

As I begin writing this article, it’s Thanksgiving Day.  Elizabeth and I are blessed and thankful that our daughter and son and their families, including 5 grandchildren, are with us for the holiday.  As I think of all the reasons I have to be thankful, I am reminded of the many ways God has blessed Central Florida Bible Camp for so many years.  I believe it’s worthwhile to iterate a few of the reasons to be thankful here.

I’m thankful for our campers.  They are why we do what we do.  It’s our love for those young souls that drives us to create the best summer camp and retreat programs we can—events that are not only fun, but build Christ-centered relationships and, most of all, promote spiritual growth and a desire to live faithfully to God.

I’m thankful for our volunteers.  Without them we couldn’t do what we do.  Our mission could not be accomplished.  It’s their love of God, love of kids and their sacrifice of time and energy that creates the fun, loving, and encouraging environment that draws young people to our camps and retreats.

I’m thankful for our donors whose financial commitment enables day-to-day operations to continue, improvements to be made, and new activities to be introduced.  Without our generous donors, we could not accomplish nearly as much as we do. 

I’m thankful for our “founders.”  And by “founders” I mean not only those few people who had the vision to begin a Christian camp in Central Florida, but all those who for the past 65 years worked, sacrificed, sweated, and gave so much time, money and effort to grow this camp into what it is today.  As the current Director, I realize that I, as well as all our current employees and volunteers, “stand on the shoulders” of many dedicated Christians who came before us.  It is an honor to continue their legacy.

I’m thankful for our rental groups that utilize our facilities for their private events.  Their interest in our camp and being able to watch them enjoy our facilities is really encouraging.  And it goes without saying that the revenue they provide is very beneficial for our financial well-being.

I’m thankful for our current Board of Directors.  The 12 men and women who currently serve are first to donate their time, energy, expertise and finances to support CFBC’s mission.  They are servant leaders.  They are visionaries.  They love the Lord and they love kids.  I feel privileged to work alongside each one of them.

I’m thankful for the future.  It looks bright.  It’s exciting to think about and it motivates me to do more to improve the facilities, enhance the programs and expand the camp’s reach and influence.

Most of all I’m thankful to God for His providential care and the abundant blessings He continually sends our way.  It’s  humbling to think about how much God has blessed CFBC since its founding in 1956.

My fervent prayer is that God will continue to bless Central Florida Bible Camp and that we, in turn, can partner with and be a blessing to families and congregations throughout Florida and beyond.  Please pray for us as we do for you.