Providence 365 - Week 24

This is one of my favorite times of the year! Monday begins our annual Vacation Bible School ~ a community outreach that touches between 300-400 kiddos fifth grade and younger. Our children love this week as they get to know Jesus and that God loves them so much. Our volunteers (over 150 students in 6th-12th grade and adults) are a blessing to our church, our community and to the children. And EVERYONE has fun! This year’s theme is PANDA-MANIA! (I simply love Group's VBS programs - they are the best!)

We know that for some children – the church is their second home, their ‘other’ family. They know that God loves them and they look forward to learning more about Jesus each week – in the church and at home. For other children, this is the only time of the year that they enter a church. If we reach just one child and help them see that Jesus is their best friend – then the week is a success! Maybe we just spark a little flame in their heart and soul that makes them want to learn more – another success as it’s a great start. And the more the merrier – our ultimate goal is that all of these children know Jesus, and know that he is our Savior.

As a leadership team, we start planning after the last VBS, documenting lessons learned and beginning preparations for the coming year. There are so many behind the scenes activities to make this special week happen – and with His help, it all comes together. Each leadership meeting begins and ends with prayer – and He is with us every step of the way; guiding us, preparing us and ensuring that nothing is overlooked.

As we have gathered for the past several months – and as we gather this coming week – we remember:

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

When surrounded by hundreds of children and volunteers for five straight days, three hours a day ~ how wonderful to remember that we are not alone – He is right there with us! Where are you gathering this coming week?

Please enjoy this word art and have fun with your layout this week!

have a wonderful week - wherever you gather...by the Shore