J.A.M. Camp - Day 3

We've been running the basketball camp now for 3 days in an area of Dublin known as Ringsend, which is a poorer section of town down by the harbor and docks. There are about 30 kids who have been coming and most all are from the neighborhood. I'm in charge of the oldest boys, of which there are 8. I've been told that Irish boys are more physical and rowdy by nature and this group definitely lives up to that reputation. I think they are good kids, but just come from some tough family and economic situations. There was one boy the first day that I know did not have a lunch to bring, but he wouldn't admit it and wouldn't take food from me either. Another boy's mother throws away the bible verse magnets that we send home with them to memorize each day.

Anyhow, either I was very lucky that first day or the Holy Spirit was with me because I actually made some amazing shots that really got the kid's attention. The reason it was so cool is because from that point on they started listening more closely to what I had to say. Every day we spend about 30 minutes in "Coaches Corner" and we are able to share a bit about the theme for the day. So far we have covered courage, character, and commitment. Tomorrow we will cover the topic of conviction and the last day we present the gospel.

The camp has been so much fun and there are opportunities to interact with the kids 1-on-1 as well. At the end of each day though I end up feeling pretty exhausted. You basically have to keep them moving and busy every minute or things break down pretty fast. But there is no doubt that all the work is worth it as I am starting to see some of the kids ask more questions and show an interest in this whole Jesus thing.

Yesterday I was able to meet with some of the leadership team from the mission agency we are applying with. They just purchased a new property to serve as their headquarters and it is located in the geographical center of the country. It was about a 2.5 hour drive from Dublin and is very rural - exactly like you would picture Ireland to be with rolling green hills, stone fences, sheep, etc. We had a nice visit and I got a lot of good insight in to the ministry they are doing here. I left feeling very encouraged and excited to continue the application process with them.

Well, that's the update for now. I thank everyone for their continued prayer support. Please be praying specifically for the kids I am working with. That God uses this camp to somehow touch them and give them the hope that we share in Christ.