As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another,
as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
1 Peter 4:10
Camp Hope is so rarely only about the actual houses that we fix, and this year was no exception. The theme of the week was the idea of being a hero, and how superpowers aren’t necessary in order to help others. It was really about service and what that means to us as Christians and citizens of the world. Yes, we can help our homeowners feel more secure in their physical space, but the concept of service stretches beyond that, and we truly got to experience it this week.
One of our two projects was to refinish a basement bedroom that had been damaged by flooding. Everything had been ripped out, down to the studs, and the gutted room needed everything from electrical work to insulation to drywall. We were able to give a homeowner a room back, not for her own use, but to offer to others. She applied for Camp Hope because her form of service is providing a home for those who need it, and recreating this space wasn’t about her house, but her service to her community. She was able to continue give to others because we could give to her.
The other house had several projects to complete, mostly focusing on the exterior. It needed to be painted, the front porch repaired and screened it, and the wheel chair ramp replaced. These homeowners had had a particularly difficult year, and needed a reminder that others are willing to help and serve them. Throughout the week, we could see the change that came over them as their trust in us grew, and those who worked on this project felt very strongly their appreciation and thankfulness at this restored faith.
–Alyssa Blevins, adult leader team
(see previous stories to follow the work of Camp Hope this week.)
The Good Shepherd Blog 