“The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” JUDGES 6:14

Many centuries ago, in the dark ages of the Judges of Israel, God called Gideon and a very small army to carry out a daring campaign against a vast enemy. He was a fearful and reluctant leader, the youngest of his father’s house, which was the smallest of their clan. But God dealt patiently with Gideon, by turns challenging him and encouraging him, ultimately leading them to an amazing victory against all odds – to prove that it was God’s Power, and not man’s which got them the victory.

As we come to the end of this Summer Season of ten full camps, this story reminds me of our lives here at Beacon! Again and again we were “down to the wire”, with a small group of four summer staff, often feeling outnumbered, adjusting to the steep learning curve as we went along, dealing with the tail end of Covid, trusting God to bring sufficient staff for each camp, being by turns challenged and encouraged. But God has been faithful and kept each camp open and provided enough staff for each one – sometimes just enough! – so that God alone would get the glory. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit – says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6).

As Fall approaches, what task or challenge is God is calling you to? Remember, He delights to call the weak, lowly and despised to carry out His great plans! (1 Corinthians 1:26-29). So take courage, and trust in the Lord’s strength day by day. Take the next step of obedience in that which God is calling you to do, and have faith that He will strengthen you and show you the next step, one day at a time.

Perhaps God is calling you to do something in your family context, perhaps to become more active in your local church, perhaps to develop one of your gifts, or show generous hospitality to someone God has placed on your heart. Perhaps He is calling you to volunteer and serve at one of Beacon’s Fall Camps? Whatever it may be, be like Gideon, and in faith take up the challenge!

With our very warm greetings,

Andrew “Monk” & Marianne “Tia” Nunn