The End

In the aftermath that was Caravan 2010 as we are finally reclaiming all of the energy that was stolen from us due to hard labor, late nights, and hours upon hours of driving. As the dust settles on yet another Caravan in the books we begin to see the already small sprouts of influence from the experience that it will effect our lives for years to come. (I’m not sure where I am going with this plant metaphor, but small sprouts is meant to be interpreted as positive new growth, rather than a small impact).

The theme and focus of the evening program of Caravan was Passion (the secret title was: A Faith Worth Living For. Yes the title is catchy but unfortunately by no fault but mine own the title wasn’t promoted at all). Passion was a little sprout that was evident in the days following Caravan and articulated within the 3 worship services that comprised Caravan Sunday. We are all passionate about something whether it is peace in the Middle East or Starbucks, God calls us to be passionate towards him first and foremost. The students passion for God and the different ways they experienced God during the week were expressed during the service through the songs that were sung, prayers given, talks said, and skits performed. The diversity of experiences was beautifully expressed by their love during the service.

Another sprout of growth which I am recognizing as a lucky pattern is the sprout of community. Now I have been on three Caravan’s I have seen the group transform from a collective of individuals to a group filled with hearts for one another. In Caravan’s past I have seen the group unite after a Caravan wide conflict and the forgiveness and acceptance of one another. It does create a lasting and memorible bond, but at a price of feelings hurt and sometimes shame (which in my opinion is not the fun-est). This year we bonded in a way that was mostly painless (aside from the occasional punch from playing slug-bug or a thrown hacky sac). The group came together under the banner of good, old fashioned, taking an unexpected nap because you are so exhausted, hard work in the way that we served. It was especially helpful to be able to recognize the progress of all the work that is being accomplished (sometimes you rake the leaves on the lawn and the next day there were even more leaves then there were when you started). This community was even infectious in the ways that the students wanted to share and thank the congregation for their love and support.