This blog actually isn’t about MY favorite things, necessarily, though I do enjoy many of the activities mentioned! Here are what some of our 2011 starter camp campers and staff said their favorite things were….It seemed like waterfront activities seemed to win out in this clip! What are some of your favorite things?
I know it’s silly, but I have to ask: Does an apple tree bear oranges or a grape vine produce strawberries? The answer is a big, obvious “NO!”
Now let me ask you this. What kinds of fruit should a Christian bear?
Read 1 John 3:4-6. Focus on verse 6.
What is the law being referred to in the passage?
How did John define sin?
Who is the sinless One who was revealed to take away your sins?
What did John mean when he wrote that anyone who sins has not seen God?
In what ways has your life changed since you became a Christian?
Do Christians never sin? Is that what John is trying to say in today’s Scripture passage? Not quite. We may belong to God’s family now, but we’re still in this world. Sooner or later, we’re bound to mess up. But we know for certain that when we became God’s children, we were also freed from sin’s tight grip. Through the Holy Spirit’s power, we can choose to stop sinning and start following Him.
So it is a problem when you can’t (or won’t) stop sinning. Think about it. As God’s child, you’ll genuinely want to leave old, sinful habits behind. Of course that’s not easy—but God knows that. But that’s why He gave you the Holy Spirit. He never expected you to escape from sin in your own strength. Instead, He has provided the way out and the means to stay out. What great love is that!
Did you know that we had go-karts in camp a long time ago? For a couple years, you could ride the go-karts as a skill. The track was located in the riding ring by the barn. How fun would that be! You wouldn’t have to go to Fun Depot anymore if you wanted to ride the go-karts! If you had a chance to ride the go-karts at Crestridge, we’d love to hear some stories!
Since the last update on the Beehive, things are still moving along quite nicely! We have had some rainy days, which doesn’t help the workers out a whole lot, but we have also had some beautiful days, too. I’m sure they are enjoying the warmer temperatures we have been having this week, though! Since our last construction blog, quite a bit has happened. The porch and railings are finished that surround the building. They have also finished putting the green metal roof on – and it looks great! The steps and the ramp up to the porch have been built, as well as the steps up to what will be the Crestridge Museum. The windows and doors have also been installed and look good! Currently the electrician is working inside so we can have some power in The Beehive. Things are going well. We are excited for everyone to see it in person, but until then, hopefully these pictures will give you an idea of what it’s looking like!
For more pictures of the Beehive construction, check our Facebook page.
by Sandi Black on Thursday, December 29, 2011
This article is courtesy of Living with Teenagers magazine.
Most parents want their teens to have some freedom. But in today’s world, some freedoms can be unhealthy, harmful, and even dangerous. Without a doubt, parents need to establish proper boundaries for their teens. And, at the same time, kids want and actually need some privacy. So how can you balance independence with your parental right to invade their space?
Here are some facts about today’s teens that can serve as foundational points:
Early adolescence is a time of concrete thinking. Acting on impulse is the norm, and little thought goes into evaluating consequences. Media reports highlight many of the problems and dangers teens (and parents) might face.
So, how far is too far when it comes to spying on your teenagers’ habits? How can you know the difference between “what you need to know” and when to give your kid more space? Here are some basic guidelines:
Someone has said that parents spend too much time “correcting and too little time connecting” with their kids. Be intentional about giving affirmation and encouragement for every correction.
Bite your tongue when you’re tempted to lecture and learn to listen a little better. You can learn about their world best by listening more than talking. Plus, taking time out to be with them says, “You are important in my life, and I enjoy being with you.”
Finally, if you sense that your teen’s actions might be out of control, seek help. Consult a trusted pastor, a professional Christian counselor, or an0ther community resource. Often God speaks through sermons, through His Word, through a youth pastor, or other godly adults. Don’t hesitate to get an assessment of your situation. When necessary, consult a doctor who specializes in adolescents because God also can work through doctors and medication.
Above all, pray for guidance and direction in choosing the best help for your teen. Hopefully you will find a good balance regarding privacy and healthy parental “snooping” so you can lead your teen toward a healthier future.
We need your help! We are currently looking at clothing options for the store this summer. Instead of just choosing what we think looks good, we want to hear your thoughts. So, we have a 5 question survey for you. Please help us out by clicking on the following link to see some designs and choose what you like best!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LTHX6X5
A special “Thanks” goes to Caroline Knowles for modeling these items!
Think about what it means to be your parents’ child. How are you like your mom or dad? How are you different? How much of your identity is tied up in whose child you are? Why?
Read 1 John 3:1-3 twice, stopping to think about verse 1.
What is the promise found in this passage?
What does it mean to be called a child of God?
Why is it so important that Christians know God loves them unconditionally?
According to these verses, what should your motivation be for becoming pure? Why?
How does being God’s child change the way you look at and treat others?
Nothing beats being God’s child! If you’re a Christian, that’s your identity. Let’s face it, where else can you go to find unconditional love and acceptance but in His arms? He is the Holy God who knows and has made everything. Yet He is willing to take us for His own!
And it doesn’t stop there. In today’s passage, John assured us not only of our identity in God but also of the future that lies waiting for us. And although he doesn’t tell us exactly what it’ll be like, one thing’s for sure: we’re going to be with our Father! That alone should convince you it’s going to be more awesome than anything you can ever imagine!
You think you know everything? While watching this video you might learn things that you didn’t previously know. Here are some wise tidbits from some enlightened Crestridge folk. Watch and take note….
Think about what it means to be your parents’ child. How are you like your mom or dad? How are you different? How much of your identity is tied up in whose child you are? Why?
Read 1 John 3:1-3 twice, stopping to think about verse 1.
What is the promise found in this passage?
What does it mean to be called a child of God?
Why is it so important that Christians know God loves them unconditionally?
According to these verses, what should your motivation be for becoming pure? Why?
How does being God’s child change the way you look at and treat others?
Nothing beats being God’s child! If you’re a Christian, that’s your identity. Let’s face it, where else can you go to find unconditional love and acceptance but in His arms? He is the Holy God who knows and has made everything. Yet He is willing to take us for His own!
And it doesn’t stop there. In today’s passage, John assured us not only of our identity in God but also of the future that lies waiting for us. And although he doesn’t tell us exactly what it’ll be like, one thing’s for sure: we’re going to be with our Father! That alone should convince you it’s going to be more awesome than anything you can ever imagine!
“The Crestridge campership program funded by gifts from friends, parents, staffers, and campers makes it possible for girls to attend camp who might not be able to otherwise. This program was established in 1970 by a family who gives a camper’s fee each year in memory of their daughter. Twelve to fifteen girls have attended camp each summer since the Fill-O-Pillow program was started. Our dream is that this fund will grow, and that many more girls will benefit from it.” This insert is found in the 1973 yearbook from Crestridge. We have continued the scholarship program through the years. For the summer of 2012, more than 30 girls will attend Crestridge on scholarship! It is amazing to see how God has continued to bless Crestridge! Scholarship funds are still given by friends, parents, staffers, campers, and Camp Crestridge Alumnae and Friends. During each session, we give the campers an opportunity to give to Fill-O-Pillow at our Sunday morning worship service. If you would like to learn more about and give to the scholarship fund, please click here.
