Day Five - It is Not Goodbye

 This morning we picked up where we left off in the account of Jospeh’s life.  Joseph is in prison, God enables Joseph to interpret the dreams of two of the pharaoh’s staff, and ultimately interpret the dreams of the pharaoh himself.  The pharaoh’s dreams predict 7 years of a rich harvest and 7 years of famine. Seeing God’s favor on Joseph, the pharaoh makes him second in command with the responsibility of preparing for the famine. 

Camper is putting on the Joseph costume to be a part of the story

Just as predicted, the famine hits and not only affects Egypt, it affects those in the surrounding area.  This includes Joseph’s family. Joseph’s brothers travel to Egypt to ask to buy food, Joseph recognizes them and tests his brothers see they have changed hearts from when they sold him into slavery, seeing their hears have changed,  Joseph reveals himself to them and provides food and land for his father and his brothers in Egypt.  

Buddies play the part of Joseph's brothers seeking food

While Joseph suffered in the beginning, God used those circumstances to save his family and provide for them.  Joseph states, “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Genesis 45:5 NIV

If you want to learn more about Joseph, follow this link.

During this week, the camp drama team has been regaling the camper with the story if Bandyanna Bones and the Search for the Tree of Life.  The small band of travelers makes their way through the jungle in search of the Tree of Life, while facing many perils including a brush with an anaconda. They do find the Tree of Life at the end of their journey and agree that each person must make their own way to find the Tree of Life. 

Left to right: Native, Bandyanna Bones, Dr Banks, Prissy, and Lensy Lew 

The underlying message, that is spoken throughout the play is, if you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don’t ever trust yourself.

Kid Royale hands out crocodiles

As in years past, the camp mascot, Kid Royale provides toys as a reward for campers doing Acts of Kindness. These acts can take on many forms, sharing toys, holding doors open, cleaning tables, the list goes on. All campers are recognized throughout the week and this year they received a stuffed toy crocodile. Kid Royale is a camp favorite. 

With today being our last day of camp, we packed up, had lunch, and traveled home.  Every year we preform a couple of songs for the campers’ care givers. This year we sang two camp favorites, My Lighthouse and Jesus Loves Me, the Go Fish version. 

There was also a video of the campers’ week that showed the fun events in which they participate.   Then the campers were off to finish their summer.  At camp we don’t like to say goodbye, rather, we say until we see you again.