In church a couple of weeks ago, our pastor said something that has really made me think:

"We need to celebrate Christmas in the shadow of the cross."

As he spoke, I was looking around at the gorgeous decorations in the sanctuary. There were lit stars surrounded by greenery, and a tall, amazing tree decorated in lights and finery. Next to the tree was a nativity scene. I sat there thinking that, unlike me, Jesus might have preferred a simpler version-perhaps even no lights at all. Then I thought, "Well, it would be too dark to see if all the lights were off." My next thought was that if we watched closely, as our eyes adjusted to the dark, a glow would start from the manger until it filled the whole room.

The Light of the World came to us in lowly form. Yes, He was born to die, that we might live. I can't quite grasp the magnitude of this gift. I am unworthy, but He was so willing. When I celebrate Christmas this year, I pray that my mind will fast forward from the baby to the cross looming in the distance. May we each accept this gift. May our lives reflect His light until the whole earth is filled with His glory.

Merry Christmas from your friends at Camp Jonah!

P.S.

*1-1-11 is a day to remember! On January 1, 2011, we will begin accepting camper registrations for summer camps and summer staff applications! Keep checking our website for updated information. We make changes often, so it'll be worth a few clicks every now and then!

*If you're considering a year-end gift, may we suggest our Dining Hall Project or our "Where Needed Most" fund? You can give by going to the donate page or sending a check to 31 Little Mountain Road, Trout Lake, WA 98650. Thank you!

*Special thanks to ALL of you who helped here all day with major clean up and set up for Winter Camps: Kim, Sammi, Tabitha, Daniel, Patrick, Ellie, Aaron, Alyssa, Shelly, Jr, Angie. We appreciate you very much!

*We appreciate our Jonah family. Thank you for your gifts, time, talent, kids, encouragement, and prayers. With excitement we look forward to sharing 2011 with you and yours!