“For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
What a wonderful word - liberty; freedom. We are so aware and thankful for those whom God calls to exercise their freedom by loving and serving here at Silver Lake. The blessing we enjoy daily through the generosity of those God calls here is refreshing. There are those who are called to live and serve here full-time and we praise God for them. There are those who God calls to serve on our summer teams and we are praying for them as they prepare for this summer. There are the multitudes of volunteers who desire to remain nameless, so that God gets all the glory. Then there are the conference speakers, pastors, worship leaders and ministry teams that use their gifts and abilities to serve the family of God in love. Thank you to each one who invests their lives – your labour is not in vain.
Freedom is precious. Let us not buy into the North American lie that liberty is all about us chasing our dreams and our desires. As precious and loved children of God let us continue to love and serve others for His glory.
Time is far more valuable than money or possessions. Time is the means by which we invest in and build relationships, important relationships with our spouses, families, children, friends and God. Here at Silver Lake we understand the investment you are making when you give your time to serve others. We just want to say thank you. Whether you choose to serve the Lord here or elsewhere, your life will be richer because of it.
Here is a testimony of a volunteer from last year describing the freedom and joy that she experienced through serving here at Silver Lake;
Good morning,
It is such a joy to be sitting here at my computer writing to you. As I think back on all that happened the three weeks I was at Silver Lake previously, I am filled with excitement for the summer to come. I'm so thankful that God has led me to Silver Lake. It's been such an encouragement and blessing to see the work that God is doing in the hearts and lives of the staff, volunteers, and guests.
Since I volunteered at Silver Lake last summer, I have taken steps toward a career in Teaching English as a Second Language. I have applied to The University of Ottawa and Carleton University for this September. After completing a Bachelor's degree I hope to find work in Canada to gain experience before working overseas. I would really love to be a full time missionary in the future and being an ESL Teacher seems to be a good place to start. I continue to gain experience working with people of all ages, especially children and youth. I'm excited for the future and the plans God has for my life.
I continue in the daily habit of praying, reading the Bible, and journaling about things I struggle with and learn about God. In the time since I volunteered at Silver Lake last summer, God has opened my eyes to see how he is working in my life and in the lives of people all around me. The biggest change in my life is that boldness and courage are increasing while fear and timidity are decreasing. My decisions are no longer controlled by fears of what might happen or what might not happen. Going out of my comfort zone and trying new things are becoming exciting and thrilling instead of paralyzing. I finally realized that my dream of becoming a teacher is from God and that I need to stop being afraid and go for it!
The main thing about camp that surprised me is how willing everyone is to serve one another. The atmosphere is really relaxed and unhurried. It feels like a great big family. I was quickly able to build strong and meaningful relationships with the other staff as well as with the guests and campers. People were so welcoming and remembered my name. There is a strong sense of community. Silver Lake really values and prioritizes relationships with God and other people. Seeing the work that God is doing at Silver Lake and how he is blessing that ministry is so encouraging. It was really a life changing experience!
Trying to pick a highlight from my experiences at Silver Lake last summer is really difficult. Five of the seven girls in my cabin became Christians! Working in the preschool program during Family Camp was such a blessing. Daily staff devotions were great. I got to know lots of amazing people! Having people lay their hands on me and pray for me during Family Camp made me feel so supported and valued. It was amazing!
I look forward to returning to Silver Lake Wesleyan Camp this summer.
- Melissa
If these truths seem strange or foreign to you, if you are not free to love and serve others because you are a slave to your own passions and desires – Can I encourage you to look to Jesus Christ? Real freedom from sin and selfishness is only found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. God saw the destruction that our sinful, selfish lives were causing and sent His son Jesus. Jesus lived a perfect life, willingly laying down His own life so that we can have this freedom or liberty that we have been talking about. If you would like to hear more about freedom in Jesus Christ, feel free to contact me.
With Love,
Paul Gosse
