A story of a fallen tree

A story of a fallen tree

Let me tell you about what happened last summer in a camp near the city of Viciebsk in Belarus (see where it is on the map).

The area where the camp was being held didn’t have space large enough for a club, so the leaders brought a large portable tent (the kind that are used at local fares) to use instead.

They had two options in which to set up the tent. One, in a convenient area surrounded by trees.

The other, in a more open space, away from the trees, but the set up would have been a little bit more complicated.

The decision was a no brainer, although many of the leaders had a ‘funny’ feeling that they should go with the second, more complicated option.

But, the choice was made, and the tent went up among the trees.

Everyone was having a great time until one day, during club, there was a sudden turn of events.

Right in the middle of the club time, a tree the size of a three-story building came crushing down on top of the tent.

But it touched…NO ONE.

Apparently, during club time an unexpected storm moved into the camp area with wind so strong it was taking down trees.

But the tree that fell on the tent fell in a slightly different direction than all the others and in such a way that it missed the kids inside!

It took a few minutes for everyone to catch their breath, but once they recovered from the initial shock, everyone got to work, including the kids.

Older ones were taking care of the younger ones – drying their tears and carrying them out. Leaders were salvaging what was left of the tent and the equipment.

The storm came and went, the sun came out, and a new tent went up in the more complicated spot they had previously disregarded.

This time though, the leaders didn't mind putting in the extra effort to put the tent up where they had that ‘funny’ feeling about earlier.

Looking back at it, the Area Director in Viciebsk, said:

“God taught us several things during that camp. He taught us to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and set up tents where He tells us to set them up. He chose to protect us even when we ignored His counsel. And He taught us unity. After that camp we felt like we were a tightly family.”

Beauty from ashes. That’s our God.

I hope you are feeling encouraged by this story.

Listening to that still, small voice is oftentimes hard. Trusting that even the toughest trials can bare fruit is even harder. ​

Yet, our God is faithful, merciful, and He is carrying your yoke, just like He did for the leaders and kids at that camp.

Here is a 4-minute video that paints the picture of this story. May the same beautiful spirit of joy flowing out ​ of the hearts of our leaders and kids fill you and encourage you.