VBS (with JOY)

Tonight we had our kickoff for Vacation Bible School. In the morning the insanity will begin as children drunk on the unstructured nature of Summer will be dropped off by weary Mamas for a little free, wholesome entertainment at the church. This is only my third year as a volunteer, but I have already noticed a few things about how many people feel about 'answering the call' to volunteer at VBS.

The first year, my chidren were not old enough to attend, so I worked registration each morning then left. Last year I agreed to teach 5 year olds. We had 23 students and if I recall correctly 17 were boys--wild, excited 5 year olds with whom I had no credibility. I was flying by the seat of my pants and was exhausted by the end of the week. I wish I could say my attitude was stellar for the entire week...but I seem to recall some eye rolling along the way.

This year, feeling I had earned a year out of the classroom, I offered to do 'anything but teach.' As a result, I am joyfully serving as the photographer and the snack lady. Tonight, however, as they announced the names of the teachers for each group I found myself feeling a bit sentimental about the important role VBS teachers had played in my life as a child. Specifically, my 4th grade VBS teacher, Mrs. Eileen Skipworth.

My family rarely attended church when I was growing up. We only went to Sunday School a few times a year. We did, however, go to VBS in the Summer. My religious education came from those weeks of VBS at the First Baptist Church(and later GAs). Mrs. Skipworth's 4th Grade VBS was my introduction to Sword Drills, a literal walk through the Old Testament and a love of the Lord and His Word. As a result of that week, I walked the aisle on the last day of VBS and said I wanted to be baptized and 'join the church.' (That's what we said at our church instead of 'getting saved' or 'giving our life to Christ.')

It was decided by my parents that I was not old enough to make such an important decision, so I walked the aisle again in the 7th grade. Regardless, my fire for God was lit that Summer. I became involved in GAs, Acteens and Youth Choir as a result. God used VBS in a mighty, life changing way for this scrawny little 4th grader.

Tomorrow as I wrangle children, my camera and all manner of snacky foods and juice boxes, I pray that I will remember that we have NO IDEA what God uses to convey His Love to His children.

I choose to serve with joy--because it is what I am commanded to do AND because I am exceedingly grateful for the countless tired, busy Mamas who have done so through the ages for the benefit of people like me.

Next year I think I will be back in the classroom...