Halo, as we wrap up another day here in Southeast Asia, our hearts are full, our bodies are sore, and our spirits are soaring. Tomorrow is the first official day of Royal Rangers Camp, and today, we continued preparing. From sunup to sundown, we poured our hearts and energy into getting the grounds ready, we continued in clearing out the land getting rid of weeds, roots, sticks, rocks you name it, we even encountered a scorpion, but don’t worry it was safely disposed of. The whole team, staff, and kids worked together with machetes, rakes, and shovels in hand to make space for what’s going to be an unforgettable camp for the kids. We helped build shade structures out of bamboo, finished building a homemade zip line up in the palm trees, and even worked on making a floating ladder. There’s something so rewarding about seeing God’s raw creations used as material to turn into something so awesome and fun when everyone has a part in helping.
It’s never a dull moment with the kids and their contagious laughter with never being far from the action. We took a little break to have a bow and arrow battle with the homemade bows made from pvc pipe! It was wild, fun, and an absolute blast. We also got to test out some of the other activities for camp, like giant hula hoops and slingshots. You can feel the excitement in the air; they’re just as excited as we are.
After lunch, we took a break from all the hard work to cool off and walk down to the beach. Words don’t do it justice. The views were just breathtaking. We explored the shoreline, collecting shells and watching little crabs and hermit crabs scurry around as we were walking through the mud and sand. It was about a 2-mile trek there and back, and though a few of us came back a bit sunburnt (noted to wear more sunscreen next time!), it was worth every step.
When we got back, the work continued. With just a few finishing touches, the zip line was finally complete, and yes, we tested it out! Josh, Kellen, a few of the kids, and I all took turns, and it was such a thrill. Seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter made every bit of effort worth it. We ended the evening and gathered at Mike and Diane’s place for dinner. The food and fellowship were amazing.
As we look ahead to camp starting tomorrow, we ask that you continue to pray for our team. Pray for strength, energy, and unity as we pour into the lives of these kids, as there are expected to be around 300 kids attending. As God continues to work through us, we see it in the joyful faces of the children, in the hands joined together to serve, and in the peace that settles over us even when we’re exhausted. We know He has big plans for this camp, and we are so honored to be a part of it.
-Lexi
