While at Kanakuk, Kampers interact with a range of people from Kamp directors to counselors, and speakers to peers, all of whom challenge Kampers to think reflectively and grow in their relationship with Christ. At Kamp, we strive to impact students not only while they are at Kanakuk, but to make a lasting impression on them for when they return to their homes.
Many students claim that Kamp is the best week, two weeks or month of their year and that it prepares them for the new school year and life at home. Romans 12:2 tells us “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
At Kanakuk, we encourage Kampers to “RiseUp!” in their communities to show others the love of Jesus. To be able to successfully accomplish that goal and fulfill the calling in Romans 12:2, Kampers must renew their minds – and Kanakuk is a great place to do that!
One long time Kamper, Kyla Soden, has had the chance to attend 6 different Kamps at Kanakuk, totaling 7 years of awesome Kamp summers. A freshman from Cabot, AR, Kyla shared with us her experiences at Kamp and how they mentally prepare her for daily life.
“Kanakuk does not just change you while you are there, it has a lasting effect,” said Kyla. “Every year as I get home from Kamp, I hunger for the Lord, and I love getting in His Word.”
Not only does Kyla feel called to seek His wisdom daily, but she also aims to live the “I’m Third” lifestyle on day-to-day basis. It is so easy to think only of yourself in situations, but Kyla longs to serve others and fulfill their needs before hers. The importance of “I’m Third” was first instilled in her at Kamp when Jesus became a real and personal part of her life. She heard the Gospel through the words of Joe White when he spoke and told the story of Johnny Ferrier during the “I’m Third” talk.
Although mental and spiritual growth began years ago, Kyla continues to pursue an intimate and real relationship with God in and out of Kamp.
This past summer at K-2, Kyla participated in K-Equip. During Adam Donyes ’ talk about “Entitlement,” Kyla felt convicted about how we think we deserve so much, when in reality, we deserve nothing. Mentioning the quote: “What if you woke up today only with what you thanked God for yesterday," Kyla explained that she is always amazed that people rely completely on God only when they need something, rather than just thanking Him for what they have.
“This really changed the way I think, because I realized I am not near thankful enough for the blessings the Lord bestows on me every day,” said Kyla. “I have made a conscious effort to remain thankful daily for all the things I so easily take for granted.”
As she begins another school year, full of thanks and love for Jesus, she encourages others to remember the closeness that they feel with God while at Kamp and to let that light shine in their own communities at home. She encourages others to live out Matthew 28:19 by making disciples of all nations and to stay close to God, as that is the most important relationship.
“Thinking that the Creator of the universe knows and cares for me personally is an overwhelming feeling of adoration,” Kyla explained.
That adoration is a feeling we wish for all Kampers. As we encourage this generation of students to “RiseUp!” in their communities, we know that the renewing of the mind and spiritual preparation they receive at Kamp is important for their time outside of the their Term.
How has Kamp mentally prepared you or your Kamper? We’d love to hear your thoughts with your comments below.
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