On March 20 of this year, I drove more than two hours to attend an ALERT Cadet service camp in Big Sandy, Texas.
Now when you hear “service camp,” you probably think that doesn’t sound like the type of camp one would drive two hours to attend. Camping is supposed to be relaxing—free of work and full of fun—right? Yes, it is. And that is exactly what I experienced—a fun-filled relaxing opportunity to serve others and spend time with my dad, brothers, and friends! The following report will give some details about the camp, highlighting some of my favorite parts.
The camp’s theme verse was John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Captain Williams, our camp commander, explained how laying down our lives meant setting aside our time and putting others before ourselves. Being able to serve the IBLP and IAA campus was such a perfect way to put into action what I had learned. Not only was it an honor to be serving, but it was also fun! As I raked leaves, cleaned bathrooms, and cleared brush, I visited with other ALERT Cadets. I was able to reconnect with old friends and get to know new ones.
Although the greater part of Friday was devoted to working, Friday evening we had a “variety show.” Anyone interested could present a demonstration or talent. There were demonstrations about cooking with Dutch ovens, eating with chopsticks, and using plastic trash bags for survival situations. Among the entrants, talents included singing songs, performing with instruments, and juggling balls and apples. My participation was reading a poem from a poetry book I recently wrote. I was especially encouraged to hear how the talents God had given different individuals could be used for His glory.
Saturday was our designated day for the fathers and sons to spend some time having fun together. In the morning, Captain Williams offered a PT test for the Physical Fitness Excellence Award. Although I didn’t take the test, I enjoyed the fun as I helped score and cheer on the participants. Just before lunch, we played five or six rounds of a game called Human Stratego (which is a combination of Ultimate Frisbee and the board game Stratego). The remainder of Saturday was free time, when campers could go canoeing or fishing, play volleyball, shoot bow and arrows, or join in on the missions project of assembling the Scriptures of John and Romans.
ALERT Cadet service camps are unique from others in that you can honor the Lord through cheerful service to Him. Acts 20:35 says, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Truly, I felt blessed as I served alongside my Dad, brothers, and friends. Did I have a relaxing time, you ask? Most definitely!I love attending these service camps. This was my third service camp to attend, and I have never regretted the long drive or the time at the camp. Every time, I leave physically refreshed and spiritually renewed. I strongly encourage all fathers and sons to join the ALERT Cadet program and attend one of these awesome service camps!
