It’s Annual Meeting week for us here in Penn Central and it’s staff training over at Kirchenwald and Nawakwa! I was at Kirchenwald earlier this week to do a summer staff Bible study on Tuesday morning where we focused on day 2 of the Beyond Measure theme, “Love Beyond Measure”.
I am glad you clicked in to read another camp theme reflection. On day 4 of HC Spirit Week, participants will dive into Jacob’s wrestling match and search for blessing as they reflect on naming the hard parts of our lives, as well as naming our greatest needs. (Read Genesis 32:22-32)
But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” Genesis 32:26b
As Jacob wrestled, he was clear that he was holding on until he got what he wanted, needed, a blessing. He had lied to take his brother, Esau’s, birthright. Through this wrestling match Jacob recognizes the deeds of his past and the harm he has caused. God’s blessing of a new name, Israel, is an invitation for him to move on from his past in new directions and repair the hurt he caused in the past.
What things are in your past that may be calling out to you for repair? How might you name those past deeds or behaviors in ways that allow you to make repairs and move forward in a new way?
Discussion Starter: What happens when someone’s name doesn’t fit them in some way? How do we change names today? (Maybe literally changing to a nickname or middle name? Or more metaphorically like bully to friend?)
Familiar Camp Faces: Tayler Leonard looks forward to seeing you at Kirchenwald this summer! Jacob Flurey is excited to welcome you at Nawakwa! Director Rev. Alice Rauch, Rev. Besty Bruaw, Rev. Carol Price and others look forward to seeing folks at Camp Mt. Luther for HC Spirit Week, too! Register Today!
Rev. Dr. Nora Foust
Associate Conference Minister
Check out all of the camping opportunities and remember to use code PENNCENTRAL2022 for 50% campership when you register for HC Spirit, Kirchenwald and Nawakwa!
