THE LIU

When I think about our theme for Vacation Bible School 2023, “I’ve Got This! With Jesus We’re Surging” along with our theme scripture Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” -- It was a reminder that with Jesus we can find strength to do all the things He puts our hands to. Not only did we surge in strength to get things done, church members, family, friends and neighbors surged in strength to show up every night in record breaking numbers. And, we can ONLY give God the glory, honor and praise, for we are called to do the work but He is the one who gives the increase; He is the one whom by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish abundantly far more than we can ask or imagine, therefore, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21).

I thank God for Pastor Parker and the vision God has given him regarding Vacation Bible School. I thank him for following the lead of the Holy Spirit to crank VBS up again and I was honored to serve as Superintendent. Although the planning time was short, it did not hinder God from what He was planning to accomplish for His Glory. From the planning team, to the awesome, humble teachers & volunteers, we made a commitment to give our plans over to the Lord and let Him cause them to succeed; man can make plans but it is GOD who establishes our steps (Proverbs 16:3,9).

Thanks to each teacher who was deliberate and diligent in planning for their classes–they enjoyed working with their students just as much as the students enjoyed receiving instruction from their teachers. The youth focused on ways to tap into the strength of Jesus: On Day 1 it was all about Trusting Jesus; on Day 2they learned how to Serve Others by Praying; on Day 3- the focus was on Spending Time Wisely; and on Day 4- they learned Discipline Is Hard Work. By the time we get to Day 5, the Closing Ceremony, it’s all about sharing what they’ve learned