You have to seize every opportunity you can in this busy world. Opportunity for what? To take a break, get away, beat a retreat—and talk about what really matters.
So on Wednesday, April 10 (a midweek day when no school was scheduled) the
Galilee Youth enjoyed a quick spring retreat at
Camp Highroad near Leesburg. The theme of the outing was “Being the Salt and Light,” based on
Matthew 5:13-16. Thirteen teens gathered to talk about how followers of Christ are called to be different. The Bible tells us in earthy metaphors that we are the seasoning that brings God’s flavor (love, compassion, mercy) to this life and we should also be a light that cannot be hidden. So we are salt, but how does that work? We want to do a good job of representing the church, but can we be too salty (and turn people away from God) or not salty enough (never sharing our faith with others)? Do we sometimes hide what is best within us to fit in amongst others?
“Being salty” also means to be rather exuberant. That might also have been a feature of this retreat!
Youth Group did not spend the whole day talking. The weather was gorgeous and the kids had no school, after all! There was plenty of time to enjoy games outside, silly activities inside, snacks, lunch, and enjoying God’s creation. Camp Highroad is a set in the hills outside Leesburg, and the trees and sunshine were awesome.
We want to thank God for our time together in this lovely setting. We want to thank our leaders and volunteers, too, and these kids and their parents. It’s a joy to be salty together.
