Nice To Be Recognized

Last weekend SMMM was recognized at the Appalachian Regional Conference of the Association of North American Missions (http://www.anamissions.org/) with the presentation of ANAM's The Great Commission Award. This award is given annually to an organization or individual for “outstanding, widely recognized contribution to the cause of Christ – especially in North America.” Doug Clark, ANAM's Executive Director, stated the award was given in recognition of SMMM’s seventy five years of ministry in Appalachia.

While SMMM didn't set out in 1932 to win awards like this one, it is nice to have your peers appreciate what the Lord has accomplished through this ministry. Recently I had a note from an individual whose children attended camp in the 1980s expressing the positive influence Camp Nathanael had on them and that "only eternity will reveal all that has been accomplished." That's the "award" I'm looking forward to. But won't it be exciting to lay that one at Jesus' feet.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Lifetime Friends

Yesterday Debbie and I received an email from a good friend. We've known Dan and Rita since my freshman year at Wheaton College. It is a friendship that was solidified by weekly trips in the early 1970s to Joliet, IL to minister in a coffeehouse outreach (remember those?). Some Saturday nights we would drive Dan's '57 Ford filled with five or six college students. Other times we'd drive the college's 4-wheel drive Chevy which was used to explore the badlands of South Dakota in the summers. Those nights of seeking to build relationships with high school students off the streets of Joliet with the goal of sharing Christ also resulted in building a friendship which has lasted a lifetime.

I got to thinking about the many friends, both individuals and in various churches, the Lord has blessed us with throughout our years of ministry. I was reminded we are indeed rich! There are several, like Dan and Rita, who have been with us since the start. They have prayed, and many have given financially, that our part in SMMM might be effective. We have watched each others' children grow up. We've tracked the career developments along the way. We have celebrated and even cried together even though we have rarely seen each other face-to-face.

The common bond that has kept these friendships so special has been our shared relationship with Jesus Christ. These friendships are very valuable to us and I wouldn't trade them for anything. What a great experience to have lifetime relationships within the Body of Christ.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

See Why I Stay

It's kind of a slower paced day around camp today. I've been catching up on my desk work which gets woefully behind during the summer weeks of camp. I'm slowly discovering that the top of my desk is mostly black, not papered in white.

I took advantage of this lull to review some pictures of the camp season and found one that explains one of the reasons why I stay in this ministry. Maybe I shouldn't reveal this reason but where else can you do this (see picture) and call it "work".

For the uninitiated this is a mountain board which is one of the newer activities at Camp Nathanael. To me it looks like a skate board on steroids. For now we ride them down a slopping hill but hopefully soon we'll actually take the boards up on the mountain and ride them on a trail.

It's great fun and, for those inquiring minds, no, I didn't fall and bruise my dignity.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

God's Multi-Talented Family

Today I had a great reminder of the wide variety of gifts God gives to His children. As I walked across the camp grounds a little while ago, I heard a mower cutting grass over by the swimming pool. I heard hammers up on the hill where maintenance is rebuilding a porch damaged by a falling tree a couple of weeks ago. Then I walked into the Kentucky Building where I saw the artistic talent of Bill Baker.

Earlier this summer Bill and his wife, Wanda, were participating in Family Week. I was talking with them in the Kentucky Building about the four walled mural that portrays various sites around Camp Nathanael that some ministry friends had painted a few years ago. There, near one door, was a blank spot and Bill asked me what's supposed to be there. I replied that I hoped to have a view of the Chapel in that place someday. Bill, with a tone of genuine humility, said, "I think I could do that." I knew Bill did some painting and did very fine work with stain glass but I never dreamed he'd offer to paint the Chapel for the mural.

Well, he did and today he completed it. Using talent, given by God, Bill and Wanda invested five days to come and complete the Kentucky mural. Oh, how good it looks! Now you have another reason to come visit with us at Camp Nathanael - to see the Kentucky mural completed.

Today, several different God-given abilities were on display at camp. Whether its mowing grass, hammering nails, painting murals or whatever else it might be, we each have abilities which God has given us to use to advance His Kingdom. I trust you are using the ones He has given you for His glory.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

A Life Changing Day!

There are two days in my life that have impacted me more than any other experiences I've ever had or will have. The first one is the day I accepted Christ as my personal Savior. I don't honesty have a calendar day for that but I was six years old and it was a Sunday night after church. I have no doubt as to what took place in my life that evening. Obviously, receiving forgiveness for my sins and the gift of eternal life will never be replaced by any other day at the top of my list.

Having said that, today comes right behind it. Thirty five years ago on August 11, 1973 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel at Camp Nathanael, Debbie and I publicly pledged our love and commitment to each other in a wedding ceremony. At the time I didn't fully realize what a special gift I had received in Debbie Mosgrove. And I don't think either of us had any idea how great our life together would become but it certainly has. The "for better, for worse" has come into play a few times with the "for better" far outweighing the "worse" part. I could write scores of pages about God's blessings and provision but let me simply say I'm so grateful the Lord has given me the privilege of spending my life with Debbie.

As I think about it, both of these incredibly life changing days are based on unconditional love. Christ loves each of us unconditionally and Debbie loves me the same way. What greater blessing could a man want!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

A Fresh Reminder!

With the close of the summer camp season Debbie and I have spent the past 37 summers right here at Camp Nathanael. Some might say, "You don't move around much." and that's true but when you're content in where the Lord has placed you why be anywhere else. We just had a reminder of why we stay.

Last night a long time supporter of SMMM came to visit overnight. Her son had given her a "gift certificate" last Christmas for one trip to Camp Nathanael whenever she wanted. Yesterday she redeemed it! When I met her, along with her son and family, at camp last night, she was so joyful. She had finally come to a place she had long wanted to visit.

Mrs. Russell, who lives about a four hour drive from Emmalena, has prayed and shared financially for many years but had never experienced the result of her prayers and gifts. Over the past 24 hours she was able to walk the grounds (including the swinging bridge), hear the stories, view the 75th Anniversary DVD and see for herself what God has done in this place. I believe she was pleased with what she saw.

I don't know about you but I sometimes can get so familiar with something that it can lose its "specialness". But watching Mrs. Russell experience Camp Nathanael I'm reminded, anew, of what a special place this is and what a wonderful blessing I've lived for 37 summers. It is my prayer that I never lose the excitement of serving the Lord in this place. I would challenge you to look around where God has placed you and see its specialness as well. Because if you are where God wants you that place truly is special.

That's what's happening along Troublesome Creek until after a few days of R&R and celebrating 35 years of a tremendous marriage.

Mountain Man

He rolls into camp driving a mid-1980s work van with a hand written telephone number on the side. He opens the door and climbs out. It's Uncle Tim and he's come to help us dismantle and rebuild the log cabin I mentioned last time. With a bandanna tied around his head and a home-made bowie knife strapped to his side he heads toward the cabin. I go over an hour later to check on his progress and I hear classical music playing behind the pounding and screeching of loosening boards.

Tim is what I describe as a true mountain renaissance man. When I first met him I wasn't sure who this person was. But as I've gotten to know him I've discovered he designs and builds log houses. Not those kits you can buy but genuine, get the logs in the woods, log houses. He can operate a saw mill and he can dry out a log while its still on the stump. He's a licensed beautician and has remodeled historical homes in Lexington. He's even working on a way to liquefy the natural gas he has on his property. He's a Civil War "expert" and there's not much in history that he can't speak about intelligently. But what impresses me most of all, Tim is authentic. What you see is what you get!

Would that we as Christians would be as authentic and transparent. We play our games sometimes and put on masks to hide what we don't want others to know about us. Christ teaches us to be real and genuine in our walk. "Let your light so shine before men that they might see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven." May our goal be to draw others to the Gospel because we are authentic.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

An Old Pair of Boots

This morning I had to visit the seventy three year old log cabin on the camp property which the mission is preparing to dismantle and reconstruct. The area around the cabin has been cleared of brush and undergrowth so I pulled an old pair of work boots out of my office closet that I rarely use any more.

As I laced them up I remembered these boots had been given to me a number of years ago by Tom. Tom is a former camper who had grown up in a difficult home environment and found himself living on his own at sixteen. He stayed in school and kept coming to camp each summer. After high school graduation he worked on the summer staff and stayed in our home on the weekends. When he went off to college he gave me these boots.

Today Tom is happily married, the father of two children, a college graduate, teaching school and, most importantly, following Christ. He overcame the odds that overwhelm so many others.

While I wouldn't say all that happened because of the ministry of SMMM in Tom's life, I will say it had an influence. If you were to talk with Tom I believe he would agree.

As we minister our way through another camp week I wonder how many other "Toms" are here this week or have already come this summer. I'm glad I don't have to know or keep record but Heaven is going to be a happy place when eternity reveals the full picture of SMMM's impact on the mountain folks of southeastern Kentucky.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

The Blue Shirts Are Coming!

At the time of the American Revolution, the battle cry for the colonists was "The Red Coats are coming! The Red Coats are coming!" Well the Revolutionary War has been over for a long time but at Camp Nathanael you can hear a similar type cry this week which says "The Blue Shirts are coming! The Blue Shirts are coming!"

During family week all the staff, both full-time and summer, are asked to wear matching blue staff shirts. This makes it easy for guests to pick out who can help them whether in the dining hall or around the grounds. We have had many positive comments over the years about this practice. It also reminds our staff that we represent something (Camp Nathanael) bigger than ourselves when we put on that blue shirt.

That got me to thinking how, as believers, we represent Someone bigger than ourselves - the Lord Jesus. Our behavior, our attitude, our actions should make it easy for others to identify us as Christians and ready to help them with whatever need they might have.

Tonight is Patriotic Fun Night at Family Week. It's going to be fun. I hear there's even going to literally be some "rockets red glare" before its over.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek the day before July 4th!

Family Week 2008

Camp Nathanael's Family Week got underway last night. Over 200 folks from nine states have gathered along the banks of Troublesome Creek filling almost every cabin and room at camp. That number includes a team of eight from Lancaster, PA (Calvary Church) who have come to enhance the food service. It's hard to enhance the food at Camp Nathanael but they certainly are having an impact.

This week has truly become a family week. We have young parents with toddlers, experienced parents with school age children, grandparents trying to keep up with those lively grandkids and the "empty nesters" who think "I'm glad that's not me right now." The camp staff is working hard to make this a week filled with many memories for each one attending.

Harold Kime and Dave Tucker, our two speakers, are filling us up with much spiritual food while the food service folks are filling us up with physical food. It's a great time to be at camp. Next year we'd love to have you here too.

Oh, gotta run, it's time for supper!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

A Senior Moment

I bet when you read the title you thought Roy must be "losing it". Maybe you simply thought I'd forgotten to write this week and just realized it. Well, my memory isn't what it used to be but that's not tonight's topic.

We just concluded "Senior Night" during Camp Nathanael's high school camp. It's a special night as everyone, well almost everyone, dresses up real nice in your not so typical camp attire. We enjoy a wonderful dinner in a beautifully decorated dining hall with table clothes and candles. The campers who are graduated seniors sit at the head table and everyone has a great time.

But that's not the highlight of the evening. That comes as we gather in the Chapel and the seniors are recognized and have an opportunity to say whatever they'd like. I've never been to one of these evenings without being moved at the impact Camp Nathanael and Christian fellowship can have on a person. Most of these students we've watched grow up year by year at camp. One young lady was recognized for completing the Bible lessons for camp attendance for 11 straight years.

One by one each senior (14 in all) shared with the other 110 campers. One camper told of how when he was in the third grade a tall, skinny, bald headed man came into his classroom with a wooden dummy (Larry Toner and his dummy, Lutie) and scared him to death. But he began to memorize the Bible verses for camp attendance and he's glad he did.

A senior camper who had accepted Christ this week simply said, "Camp Nathanael rocks!" A young lady, after several attempts to get past her tears, shared how she had spent nine weeks at camp, one week each summer for nine years. She said that's not that long in the scheme of things but they were so important to her. Another told of not growing up in a Christian home. It was at camp she first learned to pray before a meal. It was at camp where she got her strength to live the Christian life. Others thanked counselors, mission staff and fellow campers for the great experience of camp and the influence they had on their life.

But each one thanked God for the opportunity to be a part of Camp Nathanael. They now all move on to other opportunities of life - college, jobs. But our prayer is that they keep a tight grip on the things they've seen and heard during their time at Camp Nathanael. It was a great evening!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Hurtin' Today

Romans 12:15 says, "Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep." Today Debbie and I, along with many in our mission family, are weeping with some very close friends of SMMM.

We got a call late last night that Captain Eric Terhune, USMC, was killed yesterday in Afghanistan. Eric is the grandson of Dan and Joy Terhune, a very special couple who "adopted" Debbie and me as their son and daughter and who love SMMM as much as anyone I know. Joy is one of our earliest campers attending Camp Nathanael in the 1930s.

Eric was an outstanding young man. (As are all who serve America in our military service) He had enlisted as an infantryman and then over time had completed OCS and obtained his wings to fly helicopters. He volunteered to go to Afghanistan as a forward air traffic controller since he'd had previous infantry experience. Yesterday enroute to assist an humanitarian organization Eric entered eternal life.

Eric loved his country. He loved his family. But most of all he love the Lord which is why, through the tears, we can also rejoice, as Romans 12:15 says. We rejoice that Eric is where we desire to be and this separation is only for a time.

Eric, thank you for being who you are and we look forward to seeing you again.

That's what's happening along the more somber, today anyway, banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

The Capture of "Old King Coal Crawdad"

Every afternoon the campers enjoy a couple of different activities in small groups. Everything from the 30' climbing tower to throwing tomahawks. One choice each week is "Creek Stomping" which is exactly like it sounds. You take an old pair of shoes and stomp up Old House Branch, one of Knott County's most pristine streams, to capture whatever creek critters you can find.

Yesterday's hike uncovered the biggest crawdad I have ever witnessed. "Old King Coal Crawdad", as the campers named it, was scooped up in a net to the surprise of everyone, including Debbie, who was leading the hike. The camper was ready and captured a "trophy". It measured about 6"-7" long and about that wide. (The container at right measures about 12"x6" as a point of reference.) Who knows how old this creature is but its certainly survived several mountain winters. After some well deserved oohs and aahs at supper Old King Coal was released back into Old House Branch. Even while creek stomping the unexpected can happen.

I was reminded last night during a funeral home visitation that one never knows what might turn up as we experience life but we must be ready. During the visit I had a brief conversation with a lady who was struggling in her Christian walk. With tears in her eyes she said, "I just want enough faith to go the Heaven." For a few minutes I was able to share with her some Scriptures which I trust will be an encouragement to her and give her confidence that, as one who has personally accepted Christ, she will enjoy eternal life. An unexpected happening but one which challenges me to be always ready.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek (and Old House Branch) until next time.

"Priceless"

We're opening our second week of resident camp. Last week with younger campers and fewer numbers we had a good "shakedown" week where we all got into the routines without a lot of pressure. This week there are 113 middle school campers (6th - 8th grade) with many of them twice the physical size of last week's campers. How thankful we are for the 30+ high school and college students who have come alongside to minister with us this year. They are a vital part in what God will do this camp season.

As I think over the students who have come I discover many are just like our summer workers of the past - Willing to give up a better paying job or an experience that would be more "exciting" in the world's view. There is a high school fellow who is a very good baseball pitcher who had a couple of opportunities to play on All Star teams this summer and get his name "out there" for college coaches. But instead he told his dad he'd rather work at Camp Nathanael. There's the school teacher who will operate our swimming pool rather than relax at home. There are several college students, male and female, who chose ministry over money, and will work extra hours at school next year to cover their college expenses in order to be here.

I'm reminded of my first summer at camp in 1971. As a student at a pretty expensive Christian college I wasn't sure how I'd pay for the next year's costs but I did know the Lord wanted me at Camp Nathanael that summer. I came trusting Him. He proved Himself abundantly faithful as I finished the next school year in better shape financially than after the year when I had worked all summer in a "regular" job. His plan was to provided a better part-time job and extra scholarships to meet my need. And as they say, "The rest is history."

But I can promise you that there is no job or experience greater than the opportunity of leading a young camper to Christ or helping a high school student renew their fellowship with the Lord after drifting spiritually during the past school year. As the commercial says, "Priceless!"

Thank the Lord with us for each summer worker asking Him to give each one a "priceless" summer as He did me years ago.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Almost Virginia City

Do any of you remember Virginia City from the classic TV western, Bonanza? Well, Camp Nathanael hasn't quite taken that appearance but we're working on it.

Our western theme for summer camp includes decorating the front of the Kentucky Building where the snack and souvenir stores are located. Grace Henderson and Cathy Franklin, along with the help of mission kids and summer staff, have transformed it into an "old west" main street complete with trading post, dress emporium and hotel. A second entrance appears to be the back end of a covered wagon by which the campers enter the building. Once the art work is completed Mark Clark works his "magic" to attach it which gives it the full effect.

There are so many things that go into making a camp week successful. It's not only about cabin counselors or recreational leaders but those unknown, many times unnamed, individuals who contribute a special part to making camp fun.

Like Grace and Cathy transformed the Kentucky Building, we are praying the Holy Spirit will transform students all summer long into individuals who know Christ as their Savior and Lord.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

The Great Adventure Begins

Today we opened the first week of resident camp. The Great Adventure is our summer theme, which will have a western flavor to it, and it certainly will be just that - a great adventure!

There is nothing like watching a bunch of 4th and 5th graders bounce off the camp bus after an hour and a half ride. This is the ultimate award of a year's effort to memorize Bible verses to come free for an entire week and they're going to enjoy every minute of it. We're excited about each camper because we have been praying all year for the Lord to bring just the right group, regardless of number, for this week and every week to follow.

Some campers can't wait to get started. Others are still trying to figure out if they're going to have fun or not. For some it's just another trip. To others it's their first time away from home. (For those first time campers it's usually harder on their moms at home than on them.) The camp staff, full-time, summer or special speakers, are going to put out every effort to to make this week a great adventure for each one.

A former camper told me last year that when he arrived at camp each summer he knew he was going to be required to do two things - have fun and learn about the Lord. It is our goal that each camper in 2008 will discover these same two things.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

More Fun Than Possible!

We've just wrapped up Day Camp and what fun it is. I had one of the first year summer staff tell me how much fun he'd had this week with the day campers (1st-3rd grade students). I said that's one of the reasons I enjoy being here. What other "job" let's you act like a kid most of the time.

These children are my Emmalena crew. They are part of the group of students I mentioned last month whose classrooms I visit regularly with a biblical character lesson. It's so much fun to meet them outside of school and see their surprised look. It's like they think you never go or do anything besides visit their school.

This week they had a real treat. They got to meet Mrs. "Hotson". (I always tell the students the easiest way to remember my name is to think of the sun and remember it is hot. Then put those two things together to get Mr. "Hotson". It works out well.) Debbie and I led the music time teaching them a few new songs and that great classic, We Are Nathanael Boys and Girls. That one ends with a rousing cheer of "Camp Nathanael! Camp Nathanael! Rah! Rah! Rah!" It usually lifts the roof!

Only the Lord could put me in a place where I have this much fun.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

A Special Man

I got news late yesterday that O. Floyd Johnson had gone to Heaven at the age of 93. You ask who is that? This special gentleman was part of the sanding and shaping the Lord did in my life to make me the person I am.

I first met Mr. Johnson when I arrived at The Stony Brook School (NY) as a high school freshman. During the four years I spent in this Christian boarding school he taught me math, coached me in several sports and mentored me before I knew what a mentor was. One time he took me right off the bleachers at a baseball game for yelling my opinion at the umpire's call and gave me a stern lecture in his office saying how disappointed he was in my actions. I never again wanted to disappoint him.

After Debbie and I came to SMMM he and Mrs. Johnson became a part of our support team as they prayed for us and began sharing financially in our ministry. We'd visit them from time to time in their retirement in North Carolina. It was at their home that our sons first enjoyed Moose Tracks ice cream which became a family favorite. They were always so interested in every detail of all that we were doing. Asking questions that showed they had been reading our newsletters.

We last visited with Mr. Johnson this past October (Mrs. Johnson had gone to Heaven in 2005) and we talked for over an hour. It was a special visit and we even took a couple of pictures. He had such a love for God and His servants.

I am so grateful today for Mr. Johnson as being one who saw some potential in a young boy and made his contribution to mold me into who I am. To God be the glory!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

What Is That?

As soon as you open the door you hear it. It doesn't matter if it's early morning or just before dark. There's that eerie, buzzing, humming, somewhat of a "roar" sound. To the uninitiated, it sounds like a low budget horror film when the hordes of "killer" insects are about to come over the mountain. Actually, it's the "Seventeen Year Locust" which aren't really locusts at all but cicadas.

Every seventeen years this unusual inhabitant of God's creation makes it's appearance in the hardwood forests of eastern North America. These red eyed, 2"-3" long, harmless creatures swarm the mountains and for a few weeks we constantly hear their "love song". After 17 years of life underground the cicada comes to the surface, reproduces and dies. There is only this brief opportunity to create another generation of cicadas for the next cycle then they are gone for almost two decades.

This week we are conducting Summer Staff Orientation at Camp Nathanael. As we're on the verge of the 2008 camp season I'm reminded of what a brief opportunity we will have in the weeks ahead to introduce another generation of campers to the Gospel and the opportunity to be born into God's family through their personal acceptance of Jesus Christ.

No doubt you've heard the saying, "Only one life will soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last." Pray that we will take this saying to heart in the weeks to come.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Pray, Preach or Play the Piano!

I remember several of SMMM's senior missionaries using the saying, "Pray, preach or die at a moment's notice." Many times it was used in jest but with a "touch" of seriousness. It means you have to be ready to do any of those things immediately without any further preparation.


Today, Debbie and I had the opportunity to share in the service of Faith Bible Church, near the little town of Martin, KY, about 30 miles from Camp Nathanael. Our region is sprinkled with many of these small congregations (20-60 folks) that were planted along the highways and hollows when transportation was difficult. Their members deeply love the Lord and are serving Him where they find themselves.


On Wednesday of last week one of the church's leaders called the mission office asking if there was someone available to fill their pulpit on Sunday. Their pastor had been unexpectedly called out of town. I enjoy these opportunities when my schedule allows so we accepted the invitation. In the following days, I studied and prepared a message which I believed the Lord wanted me to share. I was ready!


When we arrived at the church this morning we greeted a couple of folks we knew and were introduced to the others. Just as the service was about to begin, a gentleman, who knew Debbie played the piano, approached her asking if she'd play for the service. She does this very well but it makes her a little nervous. Before it was over she'd played for the congregational singing, the offertory and the choir's special number. She was glad that last one was a song she was familiar with. I guess we'll need to alter that saying to read, "Pray, preach or play the piano at a moment's notice." We had a great service together and I think the church folks were more glad that Debbie came than me.


That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

A Spontaneous Moment!

This morning I had one of those moments that aren't typical for me. I did something spontaneous.

I had to drive to Hindman to pick up some things for camp. Enroute I spontaneously decided to pick up Miss Eva from the nursing home and take her for a drive. Miss Eva has served with SMMM for sixty three years and now, at 91 years old, doesn't have much to break up her daily routine. Her memory is slipping but her heart yearns to still be in ministry.

I came to her room, knocked on her door and said, "Get your sweater. We're going for a ride." I wheeled her out to the car and off we went. "How'd you like to go visit Camp Nathanael?" I asked. "Oh, that'd be wonderful," she softly replied.

We took the "old" road, not the newer four lane, because that is the road she drove hundreds of times as she came to camp for committee meetings, activities and, of course, summer camp. As we slowly drove along, some things she recognized and others she didn't. But when we turned across the camp bridge she knew she was "home". We drove around the property, twice actually, so she could see every building and notice a few changes since her last visit. Several mission workers were around who came to greet her. A group of MK teens were here taking water safety training and they too stopped by the car to say "Hi!".

Then we parked in the shade by the swinging bridge where she could take in the panorama view of the camp grounds. It was like a dry sponge soaking up water. As I watched her, it was obvious she was remembering the 1940s, the '50s and the '60s when she was in her heyday. Her gaze lingered on each building as if to register one more mental picture to take with her. After a little while I started the car and with one more loop of the grounds we headed back to Hindman for lunch at Dairy Queen before returning to the nursing home.

When I'm old and slipping I hope someone will take a spontaneous moment for me!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

This 'n That

Well, we're back after the extended Memorial Day weekend. My weekend went an extra day as I spent yesterday involved in a ministry of the heart.

I participated in a Board Meeting of Southland Bible Institute (www.southlandbibleinstitute.org), a small school in Ashland, KY. My heart attachment is because SBI was founded by my grandparents in 1942. The Bible institute movement has about died out but, I believe, there remains a place for such training in our Christian culture. Southland is going through a difficult time right now but I trust it will result in a renewed opportunity to train students, especially from Appalachia.

Over the weekend we had one of those things happen that you can't plan for - the impeller for the swimming pool's circulation pump broke. But in the midst of it there are things for which to praise God. First, it happened 10 days before camp opens rather than in the middle of a hot summer camp with a hundred kids wanting to go swimming. Second, the Lord prepared, in the past, His solution before we knew we'd have this problem. By following God's "guided" steps through two other businesses in Hazard, Mark Clark entered a pump dealer with whom SMMM had never done business. There he found Dexter, who with his wife, has attended Camp Nathanael's annual Married Couples Retreat for a few years. Dexter is now "pulling out all the stops" to get us back on-line. We're not repaired yet but we think it'll be ready by week's end. Pray about that, won't you?

Oh, by the way, it's also blackberry winter. Today's temperature is twenty degrees cooler than yesterday and rainy. Those are classic signs of blackberry winter. Now summer can begin!

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Whatever Comes Up

When I arrive at the office each morning I'm never quite sure what I'll end up doing. One of the things I like is the variety that this position brings to my daily experience.

The past few days have brought that usual assortment. Like what?

On Wednesday afternoon I spent some time visiting with a lady and her husband from Tennessee whose mother had been a camper here in the 1930s. They were driving by and decided to stop in. That same afternoon I spent a couple of hours checking camper cabins for last minute things that need completing before camp opens. Wednesday also included a meeting with a Soil Conservation staff member who is consulting with us on establishing a pond at camp. Not much office work got done that day.

I've signed a stack of thank you letters going to those who have shared financially, which this month includes a personal note on each one. Most of these folks I've never met personally but have come to regard as friends as we've exchanged correspondence over the years. I edited a revised camp map that is being finalized for printing. I've assigned housing to the guests registered for family week in July. Sending email confirmations to most. There's been other emails answering questions from one of our missionary appointees, reconnecting with a former camper/summer worker, "advising" mission staff, replying to requests for information and a few keeping up with our sons. I've spent time on the telephone encouraging a senior missionary who is very lonely in the nursing home where she resides and sharing with a grandmother who wants her granddaughter to experience Camp Nathanael as she did two generations ago. Oh, I've even cleared some clutter off my desk (Denise, who cleans the offices, will be glad) and written this blog.

Memorial Day Weekend is here so you won't hear from me until Tuesday. But that's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

What It's All About

This afternoon I had a wonderful reminder why we do what we do.

I attended the Kindergarten Graduation at Emmalena Elementary School today. Twenty plus students dressed in blue and gold miniature caps and gowns marched into the gym to the camera flashes and the smiles of parents, grandparents and family. These kids are special to me because I've had the opportunity to visit in their classroom twice a month throughout the school year sharing a character lesson based on biblical principles. They even included in their program a song I taught them called "1,2,3, Jesus Loves Me". What a "tonic" to have these little ones run up and give you a hug or want their picture taken with Mr. Hodson.

But I also realized one of the privileges of longevity. About a third of the parents of these children I also taught those character lessons over the years. I pray that the things imparted to the parents in their youth will, in turn, be imparted to their children. Will you join me in that prayer?

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Nothing Better!

I drive into the camp grounds about the same time each day and see the same thing each time. But some days that drive in just "jumps out" at you. And this morning was one of those days!

The grass has just been mowed, the dew had given everything a fresh look, the fog hugged the mountain ridge, the sun put the buildings almost in a spotlight glow. When you see Camp Nathanael like that there is nothing better in all the world. Then I think how wonderful it is that God allows me to be in such a place day after day. What a great day to be at Camp Nathanael!

It's mornings like today that bring you through those days when all isn't going well. Yes, I have those days too. I hope your day is as bright as mine.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Keeping It Straight

How many of you enjoy balancing your checkbook? My guess is that unless you are a CPA wannabe it's not the first thing you'd choose to do but a necessary part of family finances.

I just finished spending the better part of an hour working with Dan Plitt, our office manager, checking SMMM's monthly bank statement. With red pen in hand I checked off each returned check as the amounts were read to me. Actually we went through them all several different ways. In the end it balanced out just right.

For over forty years Dan has been keeping everything straight with the mission's finances. He has been one of those hidden assets within our ministry that has enabled SMMM to maintain a very high level of integrity. Dan will be passing on those responsibilities to Josh Feltner in the near future as Josh and Marti complete the development of their support team. How grateful we are for the Lord's provision of individuals of impeccable character to handle His resources entrusted to SMMM.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun!

I'm not one to celebrate anniversaries. You can ask my wife, Debbie, about that. I'm afraid that lack of attention to dates has gotten me into trouble a time or two.

That's why yesterday's anniversary happened and I almost didn't realize it. On May 16, 1988, I officially began my tenure as Mission Director of SMMM making May 16, 2008 the 20th anniversary of that event.

I'll never forget my first day. I hadn't "officially" been director for more than a few hours when I answered a telephone call from a gentleman associated with a church with whom SMMM had major doctrinal differences. When I turned down his request to use Camp Nathanael for a church retreat he began making all sorts of threats, including taking legal action, against SMMM. Thankfully the Lord intervened and the threats were just that without any action. What an opening day!

Where have those twenty years gone? The time has literally flown by! Much has happened from expanded mission staff, to expanded outreaches, to expanded facilities but it all took place because of the solid foundation and heritage I inherited from those who went before me. One thing I didn't anticipate when I became director was the responsibility to participate in the funerals of SMMM's original missionaries. I guess I thought they'd live forever. They are all now living forever in Heaven and it has been an honor to carry forward their vision and dream these past twenty years.

What's next? That's in God's control. All I know is my prayer is to "run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith."

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

The Eye of the Storm

I've never been in a hurricane but we've all heard of the "eye" that comes through as the center of the storm passes overhead. Well, that's how I feel today. The hectic schedule of spring ministries with its whirlwind pace where between 800-900 folks have been involved in camp outreaches since late February has kept us holding onto our hats, so to speak. That schedule was concluded this week with our Spring Work Week.

Today Camp Nathanael was quiet. The wonderful volunteers have departed toward home and hopefully blessed from their time here. Our community missionaries have returned to their counties to catch up on things there. A few folks are around to complete leftover projects but the bustle is gone. Mostly things are still. It will be like that for a week or so then the roaring surge of final camp preparations and the opening of the 2008 Camp Season will be here. That surge will continue until late July when the summer camp season closes.

Pray for us during this calm in the middle of the "storm" of ministry that we'll rest our weary "bones", straighten our hats and be ready when the "storm" surge hits right after Memorial Day. The result will be lives eternally changed.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Workin' Hard! Eatin' Good!

Most people when they think of "camp food" they think hot dogs, cold cereal and kool-aid. Well, we do, on occasion, serve those things but not during Work Week.

The most fun of Work Week is meal time. Each meal, no matter which one, is served "banquet style". What do I mean? That buffet table is filled from one end to the other with all sorts of great food in abundant quantity. We are so blessed to have Clark Henderson and his great team lay out such a spread enjoyed by all. I've heard some say they'll be leaving camp with an extra pound or two even though they worked hard every day.

I have a personal philosophy of effective ministry that says, "If the facilities aren't attractive and well maintained and the food isn't good, people might come once but they probably won't return." This week we're preparing the facilities while enjoying the food.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

What's multi-generational?

We used to hear a lot about how one generation can't get along with another. Maybe we don't hear of the "generation gap" so much today because people just take it for granted that it exists and it doesn't need explaining.

Well, let me introduce you to John, Judy, Joanne, Dave and Tim. They are part of the team from Grace Church (Harmony, PA) who are here working along side our missionaries preparing Camp Nathanael for summer ministry. What makes this group a little special is they are three generations of one family (dad/grandfather, mom/grandmother, sister/aunt/great aunt, son/dad, son) - multi-generational is what the latest buzz word calls them. What a treat to see this family serving the Lord together this week. So much for the generation gap.

This week we have families, senior adults, empty nesters and singles working side by side to accomplish a task. SMMM has been greatly blessed in recent years to have multi-generational teams volunteer to assist this ministry. I hope its a pattern repeated many times in the future.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

Dogwood Winter

Have you ever heard of "dogwood winter"? Well, we're right in the middle of it this week. No, there isn't any white stuff on the ground unless you count the dogwood tree's flower petals. And that's what makes it "dogwood winter".

Each spring in the mountains of Kentucky we experience three cold "spells" - redbud winter, dogwood winter and blackberry winter. For whatever reason in God's master plan, when the blooms are "falling off" these three plants we have a drop in temperatures which will last for a few days. I've watched it happen for years. This morning it was in the mid-40s, rather chilly for mid-May in Kentucky. There will be one more cold "spell" as "blackberry winter" arrives in a couple of weeks. Then summer really sets in.

In the meantime, we are having a great week of fellowship and work at Camp Nathanael getting the facilities ready for the rapidly approaching summer camp season.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.

New Adventure!

Welcome to the latest advancement of SMMM's website. I've been looking for a way to share "post card" views of what this ministry is all about and my IT guru suggested a blog. I'm excited to begin this new adventure to draw you into this ministry in a greater way.

Many blogs are updated every day. I can't promise you that but I will do my best to keep it current. Whether I'm telling you about the latest blessing from the Lord, a recent visitor to Camp Nathanael or the most recent mis-adventure among the staff I invite you come back often.

This week we are hosting Camp Nathanael's Spring Work Week preparing (cleaning, painting, repairing etc.) for the coming summer. We have over 40 volunteers joining us to lighten the load. SMMM is so blessed to have so many friends who enjoy working hard to help out.

Tonight we will be challenged from God's Word by Jeff McIntyre, our summer camp director, as we look toward the summer camp season. He will help set the tone for the coming summer ministry. Beginning tomorrow, twice daily Bible sessions will "bookend" our work days recognizing the importance to be spiritually prepared as well.

That's what's happening along the banks of Troublesome Creek until next time.