God moments in community

By Vonda DenBoer, Director of Camping & Campground Sustainability

I know that every moment we are given on this giant blue ball we live on is a God-given moment. Yet I also recognize certain moments that seem to reveal God's presence in a particularly powerful way. I call these God moments.

At one camp, as someone was sharing a painful testimony about a difficult season in their life, K, who is autistic and can be loud and persistent, quietly moved beside the person and gently rested her head on their shoulder. In that simple, silent act, she expressed compassion and solidarity more profoundly than words ever could.

I witnessed another person become emotional while sharing an experience. Without hesitation, someone else quietly crossed the room and placed a comforting hand on their shoulder, reminding them that they did not have to carry their burden alone.

I learned of a father who mentioned to his best friend that he was bringing his child to camp. That simple conversation stirred memories of the friend's own camp experiences—memories filled with joy, belonging, and faith—and reminded him of the lasting impact camp had made on his life.

I see God moments when a young person has the courage to say, "I don't think that's right," and an adult responds with humility by listening and changing course.

I hear God in the enthusiasm of someone who comes to camp and is filled with such genuine joy that it becomes contagious, lifting the spirits of everyone around them.

When wildfire smoke, unsafe water, mosquito infestations, or the unexpected cancellation of guest ministry threaten to disrupt camp, and people respond quickly, wisely, and collaboratively to care for one another, God is present in those moments too. God is revealed through courage, compassion, wisdom, and community.

I invite you to watch for the God moments that surround you each day. They are often found in quiet acts of kindness, unexpected courage, gentle compassion, and faithful service.

And don't just look for God moments—create them. As you respond with courage to the promptings of the Spirit, you become part of God's work in the world. Someone else's God moment may begin with your willingness to listen, care, encourage, or simply be present.

May we pray that God will open our eyes to recognize these sacred moments and give us the courage to create them wherever we go.