Good News by Jen Zappa 9/19/2024

If you had told me a year and a half ago that I would take ten kids anywhere let alone somewhere for an entire weekend I would have laughed in your face and shouted, “no way!” It is funny how God works sometimes. It has been a year since God called me to the children’s ministry of our church. Time and time again, He shows me that I am where I should be.

We headed out Friday after school with ten third -fifth graders to Camp Glisson for the Faithology Children’s retreat. The theme was rocks. We attended fun workshops and learned through scripture, science, crafts, songs, games, and worship that JESUS is our rock!

One of our kids on the trip, Banks, has a broken leg. I was a little nervous about him getting around and him having fun on this trip. I know now that his broken leg was part of God’s plan.

Banks had a blast and the best attitude! He did not fuss or whine even when he was pushed physically. He was happy to be there with his friends and was engaged in the activities.

Banks’ broken leg brought our children closer together. I was in awe of our kids. They operated as one. They took care of him and each other. Pushing Banks’ wheelchair and keeping him safe was real team building, they worked together. They scouted safe routes and took turns carrying his crutches. They all crawled up stairs alongside him. When Banks went backwards down a hill in his wheelchair, everyone walked backwards down the hill. We had to make the loud reverse beeping sound while backing up, which was hilarious! The kids not only included Banks, but made sure he was in the middle of everything going on.

These kids were truly the hands and feet of Jesus. They learned lessons to last a lifetime. One that will stick and be passed on is “include everyone.” Rule #16- no friend left behind! We followed that rule because the kids enforced it. We had several other rules, here’s just a few (mostly made by Alton & the kids):  #9 no complaining, # 13 no personal hygiene in the boys’ cabin, (ewe!),  #13 no snitching, #1 no throwing candy (why did I make candy salad? I had that coming!) and #15 do not criticize someone else’s song choice. It is okay to play the song, even if it is annoying, as long as it is appropriate.

Shout out to our awesome chaperones, Jennifer Stewart and Alton Mercer. We could not have done it without them. God placed Jennifer and Alton on this trip, and they were perfect for our crew in so many ways. Thank you for your time and dedication to our kids!

This retreat was awesome. We all came back changed. Watching our kids praise and worship together, seeing them interact with each other and make new friends, showing kindness, and behaving well made me so proud. Being with them in the moment, talking, laughing, playing, and being silly was the best. My heart is full.

With Love,

Jen Zappa

Jen@madisonfumc.com