Written by: Joseph Del Rosario
When campers find out about my long commute to camp, a common question I get asked is “Why Sonshine Daycamp?”
This is my second year as a summer intern for Sonshine Daycamp at TCM’s Jesse-Ketchum site. Since last year, I've been so excited to return and experience the joy of camp with these kids again. I think God has made a special place in my heart for this community. And despite having just graduated from university, I felt called to come back for at least one more summer.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” - Philippians 4:4
First off, God has been so good and faithful to the Jesse-Ketchum community site. It's amazing to see how the community has grown from around thirty kids last year to almost fifty now. It's really encouraging to welcome new families and kids to TCM and it's also a good reminder for the ever-present need for Jesus’ love.
While having more kids is definitely a blessing, it also comes with some challenges and even more opportunities for growth. Between leading activities, managing behaviour, and working with volunteers, it is easy to get overwhelmed. It's easy to get so focused on ensuring that everything is running according to our plans. But in these challenges, I’m reminded of God's steadfast love and to lean on Him for strength and guidance.
I'm also reminded that God works in mysterious ways. More often than not, it isn't during Bible or Small group that I see the kids’ curiosity and heart for Jesus, but in the conversations while walking to the park or playing in the gym. God calls us to be present. To walk with these kids and families in the same way that Jesus walks with us. To sit with these kids in their frustrations and to rejoice in their celebrations. God's plans are greater than ours. I just need to trust in Him and surrender.
As we learn about the Sermon on the Mount, I am reminded about of call to be salt and light. We are called to be different than the world, so that others may see God's glory.
So “Why Sonshine Daycamp?”
Because I see a difference. I see a difference in how the staff cares for these kids, families, and each other. I see a difference in how the families respond to our programs. And I see a difference in how these kids grow and discover Jesus, day after day.
This may be my last summer as an intern before I start my nursing profession. I'm excited to see how the rest of the summer goes and I'm sure even after, I'll still want to volunteer or visit Jesse-Ketchum. But even without me, I trust that God will continue His good work in these communities because I have seen what He can and is doing through TCM.
My hope is only Jesus.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”