Our family has an annual family campout on private property near Placerville. We are committed to our church, Thrive Christian Community Church in Mesa, Arizona pastored by Bob and Sandy Lenz. We are usually involved with Easter celebrations there and our 11 year old granddaughter who lives with us.
This year we determined to join the 25+ family members. As we planned the trip, my husband, Reggie, felt God lead him to prepare 3 songs on his guitar, copies of the lyrics, some words regarding Jesus's sacrifice and triumph over the grave and a communion service.
Sunday morning came and we were uncertain and a little nervous who would join us. We prayed and turned the attendance over to the Lord. Encouraging each other with, "If God leads you to it, trust Him to do it.
It was a busy morning, people preparing breakfast and starting to pack up knowing rain was headed our way. When breakfast was over, we invited family to bring their chair and join us.
Reggie played Amazing Grace, the Old Rugged Cross, and Above All. He shared Bible verses regarding the Easter story and personalized it by telling about Christ's importance to him and Christ's availability to us all.
Portables (wafer and juice) were passed out giving help to those having trouble with the two different layers. Then Reggie read Matthew 26:26-29.
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
Reggie said, "And today we do this following Christ's instruction. Let's eat the wafer in unison."
27 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the[a] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
Reggie said, "Drink in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and glorious resurrection."
By this time, everyone in camp had joined the service. Praise God. Reggie closed in prayer. As people found their voice again, many asked Reggie to do this again next year. Many asked if they could keep the lyrics.
Reggie and I stood there, our mouths a little open and both of us wondering how we could ever forget we worship a mighty and majestic God in whom all things are possible.
The scariest people to whom you might share our Lord and Savior are our family members. Remember our story and be confident that, "If God leads you to it, trust that He will do."
Hoping you all had a wondrous Easter.
Love love,
Dottie Townsend
