Happy Friday church family!

Have you seen the lightning bugs yet? {Or do you call them fireflies?} For me that’s one of the sure signs that summer has arrived – when the lightning bugs start lighting up the night as they dance across the yard. And it is neat how quickly it happens. A couple days ago I saw one flicker that I was pretty sure was a lightning bug, and then two nights later it looks like a drone light show.

It reminds me of a story I heard tonight at the opening of staff training for Deeper Life Bible Camp. (I’m soaking up as much information on DLBC as I can before I teach and lead in worship the 5th and 6th grade camp week later this summer). The story was about a teenage boy who started attending a bible study, and after a time started inviting friends he knew to attend with him. And over time more friends came, and some of these gave their lives to the Lord. Then one day, some of these people had the opportunity to give their testimonies – and they all started with “So-and-so invited me”. His impact didn’t seem significant at first. Just like that first firefly – barely a noticeable glimmer in a dark, dark night. Then suddenly, the one glimmer becomes two and then four, then a dozen… and God the great multiplier multiplies the harvest. Imagine that boy arriving at the pearly gates one day, and seeing all the lives changed, the souls saved, because of his invitations – his faith – his sowing of the gospel. An example of faith we all could follow!

This Sunday the first campers arrive – let us pray for the staff and counselors, that they would be a shining light of God’s love and truth, and that God will work a mighty harvest through camp this year, and through summer camps all around the world.

-- In faith, Pastor Eric

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 NIV