The Gift of The Gospel by Haylee

The Gift of The Gospel by Haylee - April 2022 Scholarship Essay

In the summer of 2021, I had the opportunity to become a volunteer camp counselor at my local Christian camp. I primarily pursued this experience as a mere achievement of volunteer hours for a scholarship, but what God had in store for me that summer was beyond what I had imagined. During the summer I had the chance to create life-long friendships, grow my relationship with God, and teach young girls the gift of God's love and how He is always there for you even in times of uncertainty. Because I was a volunteer, I wasn't required to stay the entire day as opposed to the adult camp counselors. This was because that summer I was also a part-time lifeguard at the local community pool in the late afternoons overseeing the safety of other patrons. Aside from being absent only a few hours a day, I would always make up the lost time by spending time with the campers in fun activities, giving a helping hand in the kitchen, and offering my services wherever needed to help clean.
The majority of my day would include spending time with the campers to teach them about God and His love for us. It was common for the younger girls to ask questions about the gospel and as a mature, young Christian, it was my job to help answer as many questions as possible to the best of my ability. Nearing the end of camp, the counselors would throw a going-away party for the campers that involved a disco party of Christian music, roasting hot dogs and s'mores, and enjoying fun outdoor water activities. This time was the most fun but also the saddest for some of us, but for me, it was my happiest. I would have some of the campers come up to me and personally tell me, "Thank you for sharing the gospel with me and teaching me about God. I know now He is always there for me whenever I need Him." Sometimes I would cry because that night made me so happy knowing that my relationship with God impacted these little girls so much that when they go back home, they will shine the same light on their families as I have on them.