Today was another fantastic day - the sun was shining, and the kids were singing - all in all, a beautiful day for a cruise.
So, that was what we did. The main activity was a cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, to see what we could see. The kids were excited, and lined up at the rail, keen and eager to see what was out there. And the animals didn't disappoint. There was a little crocodile sunning itself on the riverbank, and further up the river, there was a small herd of hippos sleeping on an island.
While this was a highlight in terms of activities, the sharing by the children at night was more interesting, especially for the leaders.
The children shared different things so far on the camp that they found amazing. The expectation for me was that they might say seeing hippos, or cruising on the river. These were amongst some of the things shared, but weren't by any means the most common. The most common things they found amazing are things that we in the west take for granted. One child shared how it was the first time they had seen a projector, one said it was the first time they'd seen a tap. Other things seen for the first time included a frog, a church as big as the one they're sleeping in (it has rooms in it, which they found amazing).
One found the boat we went up the river on amazing - it had food on it, and toilets - it had everything! But one shared something that seemed so small, yet was so sad - it was the first time they had eaten so much good food. How often we are spoilt for choice in what to eat, and complain about the smallest things. Yesterday afternoon the kids were over the moon - playing games, some of them found a lemon tree - they got stuck into the lemons, some eating them rind and all. The fact that it was fresh fruit, and something delicious, they saw as a treat and made their afternoon.
And something to pray about. Wednesday morning during devotions we were told about one little boy whose father passed away on Tuesday. Please pray for comfort for his family, and that they will be provided for. Also pray for him. Pray for strength, comfort and encouragement for him when he goes home and is told.
Also praise God for safety on this camp so far – we’ve had a few go down with sickness, but this morning all are up and well, so that’s a massive praise point!
