Making the most of every opportunity

Most people would know by now that I am not big on celebrating Christmas or Easter. However, I am very happy to use the opportunity these occasions present to be involved in spreading the good news of the new life that is available in Jesus Christ.

The first event was the closing program for Bible Club. At the end of every term, we use the opportunity to invite the parents of the children to attend a program where they can get a glimpse into what the children have been learning for the previous term. The theme for the term was Be Holy, and this fit well into the message of how we should live in light of the resurrected Christ. There were games which had an Easter theme, followed by a challenge which encouraged those who attended to commit to live lives which are set apart for God.

Hiding place for the sugar cake hunt
complete with verses about the resurrection!

Game to see who can form the outline of a cross the fastest

Children responding to Uncle Garryn's message

Our church held an Easter Fair for members of the community on Good Friday. It took the format of a bazaar, but instead of paying to play the games, everything was free! There were also hot dogs, pop corn, cotton candy, hot cross buns, ice cream and drinks for all who attended. It was a great opportunity to interact informally with persons from the community who may never have come to a formal church service. There was a puppet presentation, special song and a short message which all communicated the gospel message very clearly to all who came. We thank God for all who worked hard and gave generously so this message could have been presented to so many.

Backdrop showing the reason for our celebrating Jesus

One of the booths reflecting the Easter theme

Cupcake prize with verse attached

From Easter Sunday until the Friday of that week, I joined with the Christian Assemblies for Easter Camp under the theme "Man's image... nothing. God's image... everything". I was able to bring two children from Bible Club and they thoroughly enjoyed their first ever camp experience. Because I have not yet returned to full physical activity since my January surgery, I couldn't participate fully in all the activities, but I was able to serve in an administrative capacity. The two speakers did an excellent job in showing the campers the importance of choosing to reflect God's image rather than the image that society is portraying. Apart from the chapel and devotion sessions, there were sessions where the campers' eyes were opened to the messages that was being communicated through the media of songs, clothing brands and even television shows. At the end of the week, many young campers made the commitment to live reflecting God's image.

God's splendor on display at
Victory Heights Bible camp

Campers rejoicing when their team won

All dressed up for banquet night

We are thankful for the privilege to serve in these activities, and trust God that the messages which were communicated, in the variety of formats, would take root in the lives of the children and adults who heard them, and bring about real transformation.