The River Wild

This week’s teen camp has been packed full of activity, but Thursday’s outing may have been the best yet. NBC Teenlife Ministries spent four hours rafting the New River, an activity that was like nothing else. We set out in three boats and traversed several rapids on our way toward New River Gorge and its scenic bridge. It was a memorable way to again take in the splendor of God’s creation.

The trio of boats first started in relatively still water as our guides worked with us on paddling as a team and practicing maneuvers before starting the journey. During the course of our adventure we encountered multiple Class III (moderately difficult), Class IV (difficult) and one Class V (extremely difficult) rapid. Between rapids, teens were able to jump out of the boats for a free swim, or perform backflips off the boats into the water. At one stop, those interested were able to ascend a rock face and plunge into the water below. Many participated. Along our trek a rainstorm descended from the mountains, providing needed relief from the heat and a fun experience.

It was thrilling to encounter each rapid. As our guide instructed us to continue paddling through the worst of the water, our instinct was to stop and instead focus on staying in the boat as we were jostled to and fro. But teamwork, and everyone paddling in unison, helped us brave the swirling water to advance downstream for the next challenge.

The New River can be compared to our daily lives. There are stretches where the water is mild, with very little tumult. But inevitably there is a trial or struggle that can be as difficult as the river was violent at times on Thursday. Just as our three boats required the teamwork of all on board in both the easy stretches and the difficult, we need God at all times, not just when the going gets tough.

Thursday night Pastor Russ Smith delivered the message of salvation during the evening service. He clearly laid out to all campers why sinful man can never reach heaven without first being in God and accepting the free gift paid for by Jesus’ sacrifice. Many of our teens have professed to be Christians, but please pray that this message, and those earlier in the week, will stir their hearts. We want to see teens on fire for the Lord anxious to advance His kingdom.

We finished the evening with a trip to Dairy Queen and some time to reminisce about the day before returning to camp for testimonials. Tomorrow we will take our final excursion of the week, exploring caves here in West Virginia. Pray that our adventure is without incident and that we can once again marvel at nature.