There have been FCA camps running throughout the summer so far in various neighborhoods of Chicago, however, this week was one of the first camps to take place in the burbs. It’s one of my favorites because it brings together two very different worlds, using the platform of sports to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

Buses arrived at Wheaton Academy from Chicago.

The kids were greeted by a drum corps, cheerleaders, and lots of high-fives. The intent was to make them feel wanted and welcomed.

They then took to the field group by group

and began their competitions and drills.

This was Ruthie’s first camp experience, and boy was she all in.

The three younger kids participated in the camp

while Derek drove the cart around, delivering things and setting up and taking down the field. I asked him if he could count this toward his hours behind the wheel for driver’s ed.

Throughout the day, the kids broke into their huddles where the leaders shared about their personal relationship with Jesus. The primary goal of the camp is that the gospel would be shared–the hope of forgiveness and salvation through Jesus.

I’m not even sure how many kids were there. There were many more than anticipated, to the point where we ran out of lunches and had to make an emergency trip to pick up more food!

The day ended with the distribution of Bibles which were donated to FCA. Leaders shared their favorite verses and signed the kids’ Bibles as a memento of their camp day.

These kids, no matter what the color of skin or what economic background, are precious to God. We are praying that the seed of truth would be planted deep within their hearts, bringing salvation and bearing much fruit.

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (Colossians 1:9-10)