Friday, January 6, 2012

Walls torn down

I have had the privelage to counsel the oldest girls (17-18 years old) on this trip, and to be honest, two days ago I might not have started off my sentence so positively. More than half of my girls didn't want to be here and it showed in their attitude. I've never had to persevere so hard with patience and being excited for the girls I was given. Last night I went to bed wondering if any impact would be left on the girls' hearts before they left. This morning, however, I can truly say I feel blessed. God revealed the work he's been doing on all of my girls' hearts since they've arrived 2 days ago. We had our thankful devotional this morning when everyone stands in front of the entire camp to express their gratitude verbally and publicly. As I expected, none of my girls got up to get in line. However, half way through, 3 of my campers got into line and wept about how they never wanted to come but they've had the best week of their life. Around me the rest of my girls cried out of the gratitude that was flowing from their hearts even though they didn't verbally express it. My heart is so excited right now by God's power and I was so moved to share it with you. I can't wait to share with you what will come of the next day and a half left now that God has torn down the walls of the older campers hearts.  

Miss you all!
Love from Africa,
Kelsey Chase

Sent from my Verizon Wireless Phone

3 comments:

  1. I'm sitting in my room in tears reading your blog. It amazes to see God working literally an ocean away! I remember sitting in our teen room back in Athens imagining and dreaming up Swamp Corps and it is so faith building to see Swamp Corps become a reality. I've only participated in Swamp Corps once, but it has had such an impact on my heart and I know that you all are influencing the hearts of our brothers and sisters in Africa as I type this very comment. I've missed you all so much and you all have constantly been on my heart. Remember everything, I expect a detailed report from each of you! I love you all so much! Finish strong.
    All my love,
    Hannah Burke

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  2. wow, i'm with hannah, even miles away it is incredible to feel the power and influence of God working through camp! i've loved reading the blog and hearing what you are all up to! i cannot believe the amazing things you are all doing there! God is so good and like hannah said, you'd all better remember EVERY detail because i want a FULL report! i miss you all and am praying and thinking of you constantly! much love, halie

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  3. Kelsey! I know you're such an incredible counselor, and it's moving to see how much you care, and how much the girls have responded! God is truly working in their hearts, and through the faith of all of those who traveled to camp. :)

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