Dear CCPC Family,

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit,
but in humility regard others as better than yourselves.
Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus."
-Philippians 2:3-5

During my stay at the Pine Cove Children's Retreat, I was reminded that in order to be the people who God intends us to be, we often need to step out of our comfort zones and look to the interests of others. God calls us not to think about what is easier or best for us, but to think of what is best for others.

I had the opportunity to witness these verses in action while watching the children and sponsors at camp.

Just agreeing to go was an indication that the sponsors were putting aside the many responsibilities they had in order to dedicate time to the children of our church. Not only did they agree to go, but they all attended and participated with the same enthusiasm as their charges. They were fully present for those children, and watching the gentle, playful and loving interactions between the sponsors and campers was incredible.

The relationship-building between the girls I worked with was just as impressive (and I'm sure the same could be said of the boys!) The older girls showed a strong desire to care for and mentor the younger ones, often times compromising or adjusting to the needs of the little ones. The younger campers were tickled to be so valued by their new friends, that they, too, put their interests aside for the others. It was particularly touching to see how the girls fully included the three girls who came with us as guests. I was concerned that the guests might feel left out, but my worry was unfounded.

I'm sure that is because here at CCPC, these children have been a part of a church that exemplifies these verses in every day life. We have a multitude of members who give of their time and talents in any number of ways to the glory of God; we have mission projects that touch a large number of people. In fact, just this Saturday we had over 300 people dedicate their time to help others through Operation Inasmuch.

None of this could have been done had we not set aside our own needs to attend to the needs of others. That's how relationships flourish -- when we begin looking outside of ourselves and strive to have a mind like Christ Jesus.

Holy God, thank You for giving us opportunities to put others first.
Instead of getting bogged down in our own troubles and challenges,
help us turn our focus outward just as Your Son, Jesus Christ did.
Amen.

Kristin Eichenberger
Director of Children's Ministry