The retreat has ended (and camels in church!)

Technically the last two high school kids go home early tomorrow morning, but most of them went home today making the retreat week officially over. I would say the house is quieter, but with two little girls in residence that isn't true!

These students amazed me from day one. I knew they were they brightest students (1 going into 11th, 4 going into 12th and 3 starting college) that are a part of Yellow Rhino, but that doesn't begin to describe them. They created a chore chart for themselves ON THEIR OWN. The adults didn't ask or expect this of them, but they assisted with cooking meals (for 14-15 people!), did the dishes, helped with laundry, helped entertain the littles, even mopped floors. When was the last time a high school kid you barely know made you lunch because you were busy in a planning meeting? My answer.... yesterday.

Not to mention, 6 of the 8 were boys, and I was a bit concerned about leading music with a history of having to pull teeth to make boys look even slightly involved in worship. But these kids SANG. They did hand motions without complaining! In fact, the night before we were supposed to leave on safari we had a blackout so decided to learn some of the music. Song after song with just flashlights. It was an incredible experience.

While on safari we focused on learning how to pray and how to study the Bible. They were always attentive and eager to learn more. Since returning to the house the "formal" lessons have ended, but the fellowship and learning did not.

The retreat ended with church this morning and the church's annual Christmas music presentation, telling the story of Christ's birth from the perspective of the wise men. Another first for me (and all of us) was camels in church! A very powerful and well done gospel presentation that was enjoyed by all.

Luckily we get to see some of the high schoolers again in just a few days for the KFC Christmas Celebration, we miss them already!