Generosity

Though Jesus’ ministry blossomed through miracles, preaching, and teaching, it also had support from generous friends. In the gospel of Luke we read that “Joanna, Susanna, and many others . . . provided for them out of their resources” (8:3). It seems that even for the Messiah, the generosity of friends makes the mission possible.

Since arriving at Sonlight, I have gained a new appreciation for the impact of generous people. Most of Sonlight’s vehicles—the ones that allow us to run to the post office, get propane for the grills, and so many other tasks—were donated to the camp. Our Counselor-In-Training program is free to high school student leaders because a Sonlight family fully endowed it. The geocaches that make for summer camp hunts are placed by a devoted friend of camp, who also makes sure we know how to use the gps units for the game. Small—but not insignificant—donations accrue to provide tens of thousands of dollars of camp scholarships every year, for kids whose families can’t afford full tuition. Volunteers come every summer to help do dishes, chop wood, and take care of the little behind-the-scenes details that make camp awesome. Almost every building on camp was constructed by teams of volunteers who just want to be a part of Sonlight’s work. And the list goes on.

What a blessing it is to look around at this place, knowing how kids will come and encounter Christ in powerful ways. And what a blessing to see the fingerprints of so many generous lives on every piece of Sonlight. The mission of Christ grows through the giving of time, talents, and treasure to those ministries where we see the Spirit at work. I hope that you’ve had the chance to witness the generosity of others at work, and give thanks for the contributions that bind us together in the kingdom.

In a market world driven by greed and fear, I give thanks to God for every outpouring of generosity. I give thanks for so many partners that want to see kids get a glimpse of God, at Sonlight and every Christian ministry. I hope that you will give thanks with me!

~ emrys

incoming director 2017