Prayer:  Dear God, thank you for providing us with light when we are scared of the dark. May we also be a light to others by sharing your great love. Amen.  
Reading:  2 Peter 1:16-21 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
Light guides us through the dark. The dark is often frightening, and not just for little ones. I think the dark is frightening because you can’t see to anticipate what’s ahead of you (or behind you…). This is especially true for young campers who are not very familiar with camp yet, so they find comfort in their friends and flashlights. In this passage, Peter is talking about Jesus’ transfiguration, and he says that we can trust in the message of the Holy Spirit as a light shining in a dark place.
 
We find comfort in lights that guide us through the dark. God provides these guiding lights for us in many different forms – like a compassionate friend who stays by our side during the scary times, a trusty flashlight to guide us from our cabin to the bathhouse in the middle of the night, and the Bible which is filled with His word to guide us and fill our hearts when we need a light.



--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Lord, as you sit in the heavens and laugh, may we remember to laugh too.  Amen  
Reading:  Psalm 2 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
This past January we invited twenty-five Community Chorus members for a Post-Christmas Party.  Would I have enough cookies?  Do I have enough chairs?  Suppose everyone brought their spouse?  Then there would be twice as many people?
 
On another occasion, we planned a Valentine’s Day Party.  There was a blizzard!
 
"He who sits in the heavens laughs." (v. 4a)  Or, as one saying goes, "Man makes plans. God laughs”.
 
By the way, the Post-Christmas Chorus Party was a success despite not quite enough chairs for everyone.  Some of the men stood.  In the kitchen.  Near the cookie trays.  And there was plenty of laughter.
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Dear God, you call us to places to meet you, hear your word and go back to share with others.  May we see your glory around us as we wait.  Help us to live in relationship with you and with others as you would want us to.  Amen
 
Reading:  Exodus 24: 12-18 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:
 
The LORD told Moses to come to Him on the mountain and wait there.  He wanted to give Moses the tablets of stone so Moses would have the law and commandments to use for the instruction of God's people.  So, Moses went.  And waited.  Waited on a cloud covered mountain for 6 days until God called out of the cloud.  The glory of the LORD was like a fire on top of the mountain and for forty days and nights Moses was on the mountain with God.
 
As much as we know God is everywhere and always with us, sometimes we are called to go somewhere to really hear, really see, really experience God.  We may have to wait but God's glory will appear one way or another.  Then we come back with His word written more clearly in our hearts which surely makes it easier to share with others.
 
Where do you go to really hear, really see, really experience God?  Go!  Have you ever felt the glory of the LORD simply cover you completely?  Wait!  When you come back, are you more likely to share that love with others?  Do!
 
-- Ruth Gates

Today, we look at a Day 2 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “From Generation to Generation.”  
Prayer:  Show us your love, O Lord, in ways that we don’t expect and through people we meet.  Amen. 
 
Reading:  Hebrews 6:10-20 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
This summer, as we look at Biblical characters “From Generation to Generation,” we will see God’s story of love.  We will see how God showed love to these characters.  On Tuesdays, we will look at Joseph.
 
It’s interesting that one of the other scripture passages designated for our Day 2 study is this one that mentions Abraham, who our campers will have studied the first day.  It reminds me that God’s story is one about love. 
 
I thought this morning about an old Sunday School song we used to sing.  Maybe you know it?
 
Love, love, love
That’s what it’s all about
For God loved us, we love each other
Mother, father, sister, brother
Everybody sing and shout
‘Cause that’s what it’s all about
It’s about love, love, love.


May you feel that love and share that love today on this Valentine’s Day. 
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Dear God, you ask us to mean what we say in our relationship with others and with you.  Yes means yes.  No means no.  As simple as that.  As simple as yes, Jesus loves me.  Thank you.  Amen
 
Reading:  Matthew 5: 21-37 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:
 
One of the first songs learned in Sunday School is Jesus Loves Me with its repeating, "Yes, Jesus loves me. (3x) The Bible tells me so."  At Camp Mount Luther, Jesus Loves Me is sung to other tunes, too.  It's really cool to take a familiar song and sing it a bit differently; add a new twist like  a "We will, we will rock you."  thigh tap and hand clap beat.  Still end with "Yes, Jesus loves me. (3x) The Bible tells me so." (tap, tap, clap)  After singing it that way, you are sure to your core that yes, you are loved by Jesus.
 
Yes, because the Bible tells us so and therefore we can count on that yes.  That simple.  The Bible also tells us to let our yes be yes and our no be no in our relationship with others and with God.  Keep it simple.  No matter how you say it (or sing it).
 
-- Ruth Gates

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 29, 2017.
 
 
Prayer:  As we look for good in this world, God, be our eyes to see you and your love in others.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  1 Corinthians 1: 3-9 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:  “I give thanks to my God always for you…” is how our passage today starts out.  Paul is saying to the Corinthians that he is always thankful for these people.  He is showing his gratitude. 
 
We just had a holiday which caused us to pause and reflect on what we were thankful for and to count our blessings.  Hopefully you used this Thanksgiving season to do just that.  I’m sure you saw how many positive things were in your life. 
 
Recently, I was reading some evaluations from an event we held at camp.  Many of the forms were so positive about the speaker, the event, the facilities, the food, and the staff.  But a few had negative comments.  I thought some of them were very nit-picky.  I remarked that I wish people would look for the positives in things and not focus on the negatives.  Sure, I want us to improve upon what we do but I think all too often we look for the negative in things and not the positive. 
 
“I give thanks to my God always…” Let’s also give thanks and gratitude and positive thoughts to all those we meet along life’s road.  
 
–Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Dear God, we find our joy in you as we delight in your word.  Help us in our conviction to walk in your ways.  Amen
 
Reading:  Psalm 119: 1-8 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
“Happiness is to love the Savior" are the opening words to a Gospel hymn we sang at Camp.  "Happy are those who..." are the opening words of Psalm 119.  However, there is a challenge in verse 3: “...who (also) do no wrong but walk in His ways".
 
It is so easy to wander off His path.  Remember, we do have the ability to get back where we need to be.  We can turn to God and ask for His help.
 
There are other sources of help like family, friends, church and camp.  Keep that in mind and may we all be ready to offer a helping hand, too. 
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Dear God, your directions are clear.  Obey and live.  Stir us to follow your word.  Amen
 
Reading:  Deuteronomy 30:  15-20 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
In this passage, we are being told, quite matter of factly, if your heart turns away and you stray from God’s directions, your life will be miserable.
 
I like to look at life as an orchestra.  If we all play the right notes in time together, we will have harmony. 
 
Or let’s move into the kitchen.  If we follow the recipe and use the right ingredients, we will have a scrumptuous meal.
 
Here’s my favorite:  I buy a new gadget and can’t make it work.  My son asks, ‘‘Mom, did you read the directions?”
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Today, we look at a Day 2 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “From Generation to Generation.”

Prayer:  Dear God, we acknowledge that your promises are ones we can rely on.  Help us live in the good of those promises.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Genesis 45:1-15; 50:19-20 (Click to read text)
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:  
 
Genesis 45–50 tells the end of the epic story of Joseph: best known for his crazy dreams, colorful coat, and rise to power in Egypt after being sold as a slave and presumed dead by his brothers. Despite sibling rivalry, jealousy, and harmful shenanigans, God made everything good. 
 
Often when we face adversity, that’s when we see God the God.  God never leaves us or forsakes us.  As we look at this story with campers this summer, we will explore how God’s promises are promises forever. Even when people hurt or confuse us, or we are afraid, sad, or lonely, God’s promises are the real deal, and we can rely on God. 
 
How do you rely on God?
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  May you help us to the salt of the earth, dear Lord.  Amen. 
 
Reading:  Matthew 5: 13-20 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection: 
 
When I was a camper at Mount Luther, my counselors one day made us some French fries.  We ate them as a snack.  But when we put them into our mouths, they didn’t taste very good.  You see, they did not add any salt to the fries. 
 
We then added the salt and tasted then again.  Much better!  Our counselors then read us this passage and talked about we can be the salt of the world. 
 
How are your salt to others?  How do you make their life “taste” better?  In our times of divisiveness, may we be salt to others to help them see a better perspective.  


--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  God, our creator, as we interact with and study your creation, may your Holy Spirit continue to reveal your word to us. Amen. 
 
Reading:  1 Corinthians 2:1-16 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
Verse 9 of today’s passage says, “However, as it is written:
          What no eye has seen,
          what no ear has heard,
          and what no human mind has conceived”-
                   the things God has prepared for those who love him-
 
Reflect on all of the processes that happen in your body on a daily basis without you having to think about them – like your heart beating, and your lungs breathing (especially while you sleep). All of these processes were so intricately designed and set in motion by God, our Creator! The immeasurable wisdom that God has is mind-blowing…
 
One of my favorite things about studying biology at Grove City College was the constant reminder that science and Christianity IS compatible. My sophomore year, one of my professors said, “studying science is like thinking God’s thoughts after him.” I think that is an awesome mindset to have, that as we continue to make more scientific discoveries as humans, we are not revealing our power and wisdom, but God’s.
 
Louis Pasteur (who invented pasteurization) said: “The more I study nature, the more I stand amazed at the work of the Creator. Science brings men nearer to God.”



--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Dear God, as we obey your commandments may we remember it is not just for our benefit but to be a blessing to others.  Amen
 
Reading:  Psalm 112:  1-10 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Such a positive Psalm!  “Happy are those who fear the Lord’’ if you remember fear is not necessarily bad.  Often it is a caution flag.  Whoa!  Slow down.  Heed His commandments and you will not be moved.  Respect the Lord.
 
But the Psalm goes on further.  Respect each other.  Be generous and share your blessings.  Conduct your affairs with justice.
 
Keeping God's commandments benefits us, but the real point of keeping the law is to benefit our neighbor.  When has someone else keeping God's law been a blessing to you?
 
-- Alice Yeakel

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 31, 2017.
 
 
Prayer:  God, may we live in the good of the grace you give us each and every day.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Isaiah 58:1-12 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:  To review, this week our scripture readings all deal with three words—salt, light, and grace.  This passage, I think, speaks to us most about God’s grace and light. 
 
In verses 3-7, the writer of Isaiah is reminding us that we can try to do all we can to be good to people, to serve God, and to follow Christian practices.  But we all fall short, because we are all sinners.  What saves us?  God’s abundant grace.  Thanks be to God!  
 
We even seen “light” images in verses 8 and following.  To me, this reminds us that because of the grace that showers down from God, we need to go out and let our light shine.  I’ve been reading a book by Kelly Fryer called “Reclaiming the ‘L’ Word.”  Her thesis is that Lutherans need to not be ashamed of the word Lutheran because we have some pretty solid theology.  But she does contend that one thing we need to do is to live in the good of God’s grace and go out and do God’s work.  It’s not just the work of the pastor, but of the people. 
 
As we ponder these images of salt, light, and grace this week, what are ways that you will let your light shine brighter as you live in the good of the grace God gives you? 
 
--Chad Hershberger

Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “From Generation to Generation.”  We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on July 16, 2019.

Prayer:  Dear God, keep our eyes open for people who come our way with messages of hope.  May we hurry to welcome and listen.  Amen.
 
Reading:  Genesis 18: 1-10a (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:   If Abraham had not been sitting at the entrance of his tent, he might not have noticed the three men standing nearby.  Had he been somewhere else or busy at a task, he might not have even invited them to visit.  But once he did, it was as if Abraham was in a rush to welcome and feed them.  Then, after all the hurry and hospitality, Abraham stood near, listened and received a message of hope.
 
I am reminded to watch for people who come along in life and to be quick to welcome.  My message may be hospitality.  Who knows what message they may have?
  
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Lord, the beatitudes make it clear life can be difficult and troubling.  Still, may we rejoice and be exceedingly glad.  Amen
 
Reading:  Matthew 5: 1-12 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:
 
"Blessed are You" is the choir anthem we have been rehearsing for about a month now.  We'll be singing it this Sunday as Matthew 5:  1-12 - The Beatitudes - will be the Gospel Reading.  With a rousing chorus of "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven!", it's an anthem that sticks in your head and you find yourself singing it out loud.  At least I do.  At random moments.  In random places.  I try to keep it to myself but this chorus has burst out a bunch of times.  Full voice; with enthusiasm.
 
After this Sunday another anthem may get stuck in my head.  But for the past few weeks I have been reminded to "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad!"  And I have noticed not only has the song stuck in my head but the feeling has stuck in my heart, too.  I have rejoiced a bit more and not just in song.  I have been exceedingly glad even when things are difficult and troubling.
 
Yes, I have noticed that.  I wonder if anyone else has?  I know I have surprised a few people at least.  Whoa!  She really must be exceedingly glad.
 
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Help us keep our eyes focused on you, Christ Jesus.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  I Corinthians 1:18-31 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:  
 
“For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
 
How do you feel about the cross?  In this season of Epiphany, as we explore the ways that Jesus revealed who he was, it’s interesting that we are reminded to keep our eyes on the cross.  It is the good news!  
 
Paul reminds us of all the foolish things that we could focus our thoughts on and then ends by reminding us to boast in the Lord.  How will you do that today?
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Who may be with you, Lord?  Those who love.  May we never be moved.  Amen
 
Reading:  Psalm 15 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. 

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me?  
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text?  
 
Reflection:
 
Psalm 15 asks, "Who...?  Who...?"  The questions are who may abide in (God's) tent and who may dwell on (His) holy hill.  Being a camp sort of person, the words who and tent made me think of owls and cabins.  Which made me think of Camp Mount Luther.
 
Have you seen the Camp Mount Luther promotional video?  It is terrific!  Here is a link to it: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JwuTBFNEb70&feature=youtu.be
 
Who may abide in God's tent and who may dwell on His holy hill?  As the side notes for Psalm 15 in my Bible point out, the requirements for entering into God's presence are based on how people treat each others, not on ritual preparations.  Those who love their neighbors may enter.  Click on that link again.  See neighbors; see love.
 
Looking for a tent or a holy hill?  How about a cabin at Mt. Luther!  You may even hear an owl, too.
 
-- Ruth Gates

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 24, 2017.
 
Prayer:  Thanks be to God who loves us.  Amen
 
Reading:  Micah 6:1-8 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  It’s a court scene.  The Lord and Israel are in contention.  First God testifies.  “I brought you out of Egypt.  I set you free from your slavery.  I sent leaders to guide you to the Holy Land.  I have saved you.  Just remember your history.”  Now it is Israel’s turn to plead its case.  “With what shall I come before the Lord?”  Sounds to me like Israel concedes with no argument.  It’s no contest.
 
And so it is.  It is God who blesses, forgives, graces, saves.  And as much as we may want to proclaim our case we have none. As much as we want to claim some right to God’s love, we have none.  We come before God empty handed. Thanks be to a God who loves us. 
 
--Jim Bricker

Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “From Generation to Generation.”
 
Prayer:  Creator God, may we set our heart on you and your kingdom rather than on worries of this world. For you are so great. You love and care for us even when we don’t deserve it. Amen.
 
Reading:  Luke 12:22-34 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
I love this passage, and how it points out creation as a reminder not to worry! Reading this with campers will be a great opportunity to stop and look at the small beautiful details that God attends to in his creation. So much goes on in our day-to-day lives, there is no wonder we are often overwhelmed with worry. If we take some time to stop and be still (like at camp), it becomes easier to see all the ways the God provides. The way he provides for the trees with leaves that capture the sunlight, and for bees with all the clover in the field. Jesus reminds his disciples that if God provides for things like trees, how much more will he provide for his children. Set your heart on God’s kingdom rather than on worries!
 
This summer I look forward to sharing stories with campers about how God provides for his people From Generation to Generation in the Bible, and reflecting on creation to see how God is still providing for us and the trees!


--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  May we keep our baptismal call ever present, Lord, and do your will and work in this world.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Matthew 4: 12-23 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
January 1, 2001.  That’s the day I started my ministry at Camp Mount Luther as director.  It’s a significant date for me and I can remember the lead up to starting this job and I remember those early days of preparations for my first summer camp, setting up my office, and getting busy.
 
In our Gospel reading this Sunday, we hear the stories of Jesus’ first days of ministry.  We hear about him calling his disciples and curing sickness.  It is recorded for all time what he did in those early days.
 
As I thought about how the date 1/1/01 signifies the start of my ministry, I actually thought, “That’s not right.”  I should use the date 2/18/73.  That is my baptismal day and the day that I really began my ministry, not as director, but as a child of God.  Because we are called through those living waters to do God’s will and work in a broken world. 
 
What ministry stories can you tell in your time as a child of God?  When did it all start for you?
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  God, may we learn to stand, hand-in-hand, for what we believe in, and what you love. Unify us in your love and mercy. Amen.
 
Reading:  1 Corinthians 1:10-18 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
What speaks to me most in this passage is its relevance. It is too easy to see the many divisions amongst God’s people, outside and inside the church. The header for this passage in my Bible says, “A Church Divided Over Leaders,” and if you replace the word “church” with just about anything else (country, school, workplace, etc.) I am sure you will find a correlation to divisions you’ve experienced in a community. Afterall, conflict is a natural part of community-building, but some will struggle to move past it.
 
This passage calls for a unification of mind and thought, with a focus instead on what unifies us at our core, the cross of Christ. In that unity is where we find our strength. I have been a part of a lot of conversations recently that revolve around this unification on the basis of core values, in order to proceed through change without changing the heart of the community. This passage seemed to come up at just the right time (but is there ever a time when we don’t need this reminder?). This message gives strength to those willing to stand up and work for what they love and value.
 
Take one more look at verse 18: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”  


--Anne Harshbarger
 
 

Prayer:  One thing I ask(ed) of the, LORD, that I will seek after: to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.  (Psalm 27: 4) Amen
 
Reading:  Psalm 27: 1, 4-10 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
My group of friends has come across a new game called Match-O-Rama.  The object of the game is to write down the answer to a question and hope it matches the answer of another person around the circle.  If you think your anwer will match the answer of the person right next to you and it turns out it does, 5 points!  If you are not so sure, you can go for matching someone two, three, four or five people but you'll receive fewer points the further out you go.
 
The question was, "If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is one thing you would want to have with you?"  The answers ranged from an umbrella to a friend to sunscreen to fresh water to a boat to a volleyball named Wilson.  I don't think anyone matched another person around the circle.  We agreed a boat was the smart answer.  We all laughed and cried out, "Wilson!" in our best Castaway Tom Hanks impersonations.  Then someone remembered how good it would be to find a Genie in a bottle who would grant three wishes.  And we all know the first wish should be, "I wish for a thousand wishes."
 
The Psalmist asked one thing: to live in the house of the LORD.  To constantly return to God's house helps to sustain the relationship with God and show that this is the central relationship in one's life.  Who or what do you seek in your life?
 
-- Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Lord, your light has come for us to see.  Increase our joy as we live in your love.  Amen
 
Reading: Isaiah 9: 1-4 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
So many recurring references to light!  “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light." (Handel’s Messiah)  “Jesus the Light of the World” (an old Appalachian hymn). “Arise! Shine! For Thy Light has Come” (also from the Messiah).
 
There’s a legend about a little chapel in Switzerland that had no lights.  When the people came for Christmas Eve Mass, they all brought their lit lanterns and the church was filled with a warm glow.
 
This morning I sat in church and the morning sunlight poured through the stain glass windows. More of God’s light! The old, drafty windows are not practical, but they are a reminder of God’s love.  Come see the light.  It is everywhere for everyone.
 
-- Alice Yeakel

Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “From Generation to Generation” and one of the alternative stories we may use with the campers.
 
Prayer:  God, help us to more fully trust your promises today and every day.  Amen.   
 
Reading:  Genesis 18:1-15 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Why are we always trying to hide our true emotions when we think others will look down upon us?  Sarah laughs when she is told she will have a child in old age.  But, she tries to deny it.  But, she is called on it.  And, guess what, it comes true.  She does have a child in old age.
 
As we study “From Generation to Generation” this summer, we will look at how God keeps God’s promises. Even when the present and future seem uncertain, we can trust God’s promises.  God promised Sarah a child.  And it happened.
 
Hopefully, as we look at the story of Abraham and Sarah this summer, our campers will learn to trust God’s promises.  When God says it, it is so!


--Chad Hershberger
 
 
 

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 9, 2017.
 
Prayer:  Help us, Lamb of God, to see and know.  Amen
 
Reading:  John 1:29-42 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  “Come and see.”  A curious person asked Jesus, “Where are you staying?”  “Come and see.”  Not “32 N. Third St.”  Not “Next to where the Jones are.”  But, “Come and see.”  Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?  Both about the question and the answer—they don’t quite match.  
 
John, the Gospel writer, is almost always working at several levels of meaning.  The curious person may have wanted to know literally where Jesus lived.  But, John has the question posed in such a way that it could mean something more intuitive.  “Where is the permanent, undying dwelling place of the Lamb of God?”  “Can I dwell where God is?”  “Where can we go to be in the presence of God?”  “Come and see.”
 
Sometimes reading peoples’ ideas about living with God is helpful.  Conversations with others about God can open ideas, too.  We can perhaps gain insight into our relationship with God from knowing another’s relationship with God.  But, in the end I think, it is really about experiencing God.  I don’t care much for trying to explain God to people.  But I sure do like inviting them, “Come and see.”  Want to know what love is?  “Come and see.”  Want to experience grace?  “Come and see.”  Come and be in the presence of others who seek Jesus.  Come and live with those who have experienced God's love.  “Come and see.”
 
 --Jim Bricker