Monday, 17th December 2008
It's over-cast and a little cooler in the morning of Day Three at camp. During breakfast, a sudden downpour sends campers rushing about to move beds and belongings to safety; even so, some will have puddles in their sleeping tents and damp mattresses to contend with later on.
A quick morning meeting is called by the Camp Officials to highlight the importance of showing one another respect. Firstly, we are also encouraged to build relationships with the elders by making it a priority to spend time with them, one-on-one. We are reminded that they have opened their lives and have given of their time to meet with us and that we should take advantage of this privilege. Secondly, that we should show mutual respect for one another by being aware of personal space and thus avoiding all unnecessary physical contact with one another.
A little more rain in the morning means that the second leg of the Treasure Hunt is postponed for an hour or so, but soon the rain lets up and the games can begin. The aim, on Day Three of the Treasure Hunt, in addition to playing as many of the games as possible to collect rewards, is for teams to locate marshals to swap or buy cards in an attempt to make up a run of cards. The trick is that these transactions are only possible with specific but unmarked marshals. In addition, marshals look out for team-spirit, patience, diligence, fun had during challenge or game, politeness in greeting and thanking the field-marshal, inclusion of and encouraging all of the team mate where possible, not leaving litter lying around, no cheating, sportsmanship, interest and participation; the very last item looked at is how many points or rewards have been collected and/or earned.
The spirit of camaraderie can be heard in the constant yelling of war-cries from across the games field, along with truly rousing mini-cries of "Thank you marshal, thank you!" Then suddenly, the games field begins to empty as more rain descends, though some teams are dedicated enough to complete their games whilst getting soaking wet. The last team at the Tennis Volley continue valiantly in the pouring rain with their team mates cheering them on to the very final volley! All are thoroughly soaked, including the marshal!
Despite the damp conditions and dripping meeting tent, the atmosphere is still one of happiness and exuberance come lunch time, and a good time of fellowship is enjoyed by all as the tuck-shop opens, selling copious amounts of water, healthy snacks like yoghurt and nuts, and the ever-present crisps and chocolate, fizzy drinks, and sweet biscuits.
Free-time sees meaningful one-on-one conversations as well as large groups chilling together, sharing hearts, discussing the Lord's hand on their lives, exchanging testimonies, confessing their love for Jesus to one another, new comers that are hearing this gospel for the first time. It's a wonderful contrast - intense times of sharing against a back-drop of responsibilities and chores taking place. Free-time is a chance to take a shower or a nap, or just general chill-time before the meeting begins at 18h00. The meetings are attended by an increasing number of visitors to camp; they have come just for the evening meetings and to hear what the Lord wants to say to the youth through Miki's preaching.
The evening meeting ends with a vibrant and impromptu jam session led by Audrey on the lead guitar. She is accompanied by a few elders; Bernard on the bass guitar, Fabien on vocals, Roland on drums and Patrick on keyboard, in a lively rendition of "When The Saints Go Marching" for example. These are some of the original members of the church, way back when the numbers were few and funding was limited. For them to look back and reminisce at "the old days" makes it all the more powerful to see what the Lord has accomplished in just a few years. From 10 or so local Mauritians in total, to what they see before them - 500 youngsters from across the world - is an awesome testimony to the Lord and of His glorious plan. Quite a moving moment!
Then, before lights out, it is time to head back to dorms and tents for curfew. Many hit the sack with a sigh of relief, thoroughly exhausted.
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