WARRIOR CAMP UPDATE . 6-25-10

WARRIOR CAMP UPDATE

June 25, 2010

Hello Warrior Nation!

Hope you’re all having a great summer! For those of you who mysteriously continue to doubt my ability to compose marathon length Warrior Camp Updates, this one may come to hold the belt! (If you’re in a rush, feel free to glance over the “Table of Contents” below, and then fast-forward to the sections that interest you most).

Without further delay, let’s dive in…

Hang on. Let me check. Yeah. Pretty sure this will be my least favorite update, to put it nicely. I think I’d rather run a few miles…in wet jeans. It’s not because I don’t enjoy the interaction with you out there in Warrior Nation. I really do! Hearing back from you is a huge encouragement to us, and helps keep our motivational gas tank from running on fumes. No. Instead, it’s this unfortunate topic that keeps buzzing around like a pesky mosquito, or maybe like that yellow jacket that manages to light your fuse. I’ve definitely come a long way in being able to hit the tough issues head on like a sledge hammer. But somehow this one still makes me feel like curling up in the fetal position, or about as agile as a porpoise on a balance beam. It’s awkward and unsettling, kind of like eating bad Mexican from the local Burrito Trailer your mom warned you about. (Hey, you were starving, and it was cheap). Or maybe it’s a bit like telling Aunt Bertha she has a huge rip in her nylons. Or Uncle Fred that his toupee is off-center. How do you start that conversation?

I’m not sure how exactly to embark into these uncharted waters. But are we going there anyway? Absolutely! In the last video update, I invited Warrior Nation to participate and interact for the first time. Since then, one thing has been popping up like a clan of spring gophers. It’s a topic that is often forbidden, and as flammable as July 4th. It’s also about as easy to discuss as opening Pandora’s Box. It reeks with uncertainty, surprise, risk, and the excitement of the unknown. It’s a five letter word and is often taboo. Any guesses? Ready for it? We’re going to talk about…(drumroll please)… money.

There it is. I said it. (Now that we’ve courageously crossed that bridge, I’ll either refer to it as the dreaded “M” word, or maybe use the hopefully less infamous “$” symbol on my keyboard). Anyway, since the last update to Warrior Nation, the whole $ thing has managed to become a prevalent theme, and the examples are so abundant, that it didn’t take rocket surgery to see the wisdom and practical benefits of tackling this behemoth in the very near future. I owe this revelation to one of my closest friends, whose business savvy and street smarts could probably make him the next Stephen Covey. Another friend recently expressed how surprised and impressed he was at the philosophy of $ embraced by a church he was checking out for the first time. Right there on the bulletin were written the salaries of everyone on the church staff, visible for all to see. That got the wheels turning. Before that, a ministry partner whom I highly respect had a polite and candid talk about how $, faith, God, and ministry all intersect. I’m still trying to wrap my head around all that, but the interaction definitely put some insightful new stuff on my horizon. Even earlier, Warrior Camp received its first donation ever, and since then, interest in financially supporting Warrior Camp has been growing, all completely unsolicited. A few weeks ago it dawned on me. By the next update, it would be time to break out of the comfort zone and embark deep into uncharted territory. We would actually try to muster the audacity to talk about $.

So here we are. And without further adieu, we’ll jump in with both feet and let you look “under the hood” of Warrior Camp. Here’s our “Top 10 Forbidden Questions” we thought you might like to ask about Warrior Camp:

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

    
     1. How much $ do you make to lead Warrior Camp? (This one will be short :)

     2. Where does the $ come from to fund Warrior Camp?

     3. How much work and $ does it take to put on a Warrior Camp?

     4. Why is Warrior Camp so expensive to put on? Where does the $ go?

     5. What are the biggest expenses for Warrior Camp?

     6. How much does it cost for kids or teens to attend Warrior Camp?

     7. Does Warrior Camp generate any profit? If so, where does it go?

     8. What is the Warrior Camp philosophy on $?

     9. Will Warrior Camp ever ask for donations? Why or why not? How can I help?

    10. What has Warrior Camp purchased recently? What is Warrior Camp going to buy in the near future?

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1. How much $ does Derek make to lead Warrior Camp?

Great question. Though it may likely change in the future as Warrior Camp grows and matures, I, like our original Warrior Camp Team, am 100% a volunteer when it comes to financial compensation. To put it bluntly, we don’t do this with any high hopes of striking gold or even knocking down ½ of minimum wage. Ever have a passion and a vision that God has branded so deep that it’s in your DNA? That’s bigger than you? That you just know needs to exist? Like the commercial says, for everything else, there’s Mastercard.

2. Where does the $ come from to fund Warrior Camp?

Wow. (Way to cut to the chase!) There are 3 sources. Let me explain. I have a separate job for which I’m forever grateful to God. It gives me the freedom to travel from East to West and to do Warrior Camp Ministry in a way that blows my mind when I think about God’s provision. It also gives me the capability to procure some or all of the game and discipleship equipment we need, out-of-pocket. This is the 1st source of $ for Warrior Camp, and is the one that helps tackle the upfront costs associated with procuring all the stuff we need in order to put on a Warrior Camp, before it officially begins.

Next is Warrior Camp Registration and Admission. This is the 2nd source of $ for Warrior Camp. Here, kids or students pay to come to Warrior Camp, kind of like we all did as teens when we went to Summer Camp, only less. The Camper Admission gets lumped into one “pot” and goes toward reimbursing the upfront costs mentioned earlier. This 2nd source of $ helps cover the costs directly associated with the given Warrior Camp, and may even provide a little extra for Warrior Camps the following year.

The 3rd and final source of $ is from those in Warrior Nation who are excited about the vision and who want to help sponsor Warrior Camp financially, as well as in prayer. Our first gift of this kind came just this last Spring 2010, and as promised, we’re using every penny to the max as we fully gear up for the Summer Camping Season. Thanks again to everyone in Warrior Nation for your support, encouragement and prayer! You’ll never know how much you’re appreciated.

3. How much work and $ does it take to put on a Warrior Camp?

Great question. No joke, fully preparing for Warrior Camp is like a marathon more than a sprint, and eats up a decent amount of “blood, sweat, and tears,” as the saying goes. There’s a long list of stuff to tackle, and we really love it if we can bat close to a thousand. What Man-Crafts are the Warriors going to build in the Weapon Workshop? What games are Warriors going to play? What’s the best way to build or procure all that corresponding game equipment? What’s on the schedule? What exactly will the discipleship rallies look like? How can we best train these kids or youth in being a man after God’s own heart? These are big questions, and this stuff doesn’t just happen. Also, though we strive to make Warrior Camp as easy as possible for the kids’ pastor or youth pastor at the host church, this person nevertheless deserves a high-five for their efforts as well. While certain preparations begin months in advance, the actual “marathon” of fully gearing up for Warrior Camp can take anywhere from 3-4 weeks, and consume well over 100 combined hours from our team.

Financially, the cost of materials, gear, and equipment alone hovers around 50% of the total amount of Warrior Camp Admission. I’ve included the complete list below:

GAME EQUIPMENT: approximately $550-$650 (or more) goes toward buying or building game equipment for Warrior Camp. Some of this goes toward construction materials for the signature Weapon Workshop, where each Warrior gets to customize or build his own take-home weapon. (No worries Moms: your Warrior won’t end up in the hospital, we promise!). Approximately 80% or more of this game equipment cost is associated with gear which can be used at multiple Warrior Camps.

WARRIOR CAMP T-SHIRTS: approximately $300 goes to designing/ordering Warrior Camp T-shirts, which Warrior Campers can buy at or after Warrior Camp. Any remaining shirts can be sold at a subsequent Warrior Camp. Warrior Camp Dog-Tags ($100) and Warrior Camp Group Photos are other souvenirs which may be made available.

FUEL AND TRAVEL: approximately $100-$150+ goes to keeping the team’s gas tanks full, especially if we travel very far to meet the hosting church on their turf. Approximately $75 goes to renting a truck. Churches which are significantly closer are far less expensive in this category.

GRATITUDE AND THANKS: We’re genuinely grateful for the volunteering spirit and excitement from each member of our team to be a part of the Warrior Camp Leadership. They give 100% all day long, love the kids, echo the vision, and enjoy bringing up the $ thing as much as I do.  While our first Warrior Camp involved a Team of complete volunteers, since then we're becoming more able to gift our team in small ways.  From our very first Warrior Camp until now, either most or all of our team have fully intended on volunteering 100% of their time at Warrior Camp.  When $ does come up, it usually involves reimbursing everyone for their gas bill getting to Warrior Camp.  Aside from rare, justified exceptions, there is little or no expectation for $.  Nevertheless, Warrior Camp purposefully aims to take care of its leadership team.  It’s definitely not a salary, but I’m thrilled to express our gratitude for each member in a tangible way.

MISCELLANEOUS: In addition to these major categories, there may be small but highly important expenses associated with each of the Warrior Camp Discipleship Rallies. We might give each Warrior his own brick, encouraging him to mark it with the creed that God is calling him to live by. This year, we’ll be handing each kid his own Warrior Camp Discipleship Booklet, which he can use to “immortalize” his God time at Warrior Camp, and also for follow-up with his Sunday school teacher, who got to experience Warrior Camp with him. Fireworks kick off the Opening Ceremonies with some loud and proud shock and awe. Fun, high-energy songs (purchased through itunes) help create a fun, outdoor atmosphere during the field games. Then there’s the candy launch, where we send pounds and pounds of candy (the good stuff, not crusty tootsie-rolls from last year’s Halloween party!) into the lower atmosphere with long range spud guns, letting it rain down upon grinning, scrambling, kids. Also, a special Grand Prize is awarded by each Team Leader to one distinguished Warrior who demonstrates leadership, Godly character, Biblical manhood, and other honorable virtues. After the final game at Warrior Camp, the 1st and 2nd place teams are then announced, and each Warrior is given a corresponding prize. Much of this stuff helps put an extra “cherry on top” of the kid’s experience at Warrior Camp, and together may total between $50-$150.

4. Why is Warrior Camp so expensive to put on? Where does the $ go?

Great question. If we bring Warrior Camp to several different kids’ ministries or youth groups each year, our cost per camp takes a big and encouraging dive. The result is that each consecutive Warrior Camp actually gets less expensive, on average, to put on. On the other extreme, if we do 1 or 2 camps per year, our average cost per camp climbs. In the last case, one main reason for big recurring annual expenses is this: because camper boredom-through-redundancy is enemy #1. We’ve tried really hard to identify the biggest challenges which camp ministries face, and one of them is this: maintaining the elements of excitement and surprise for the campers from year to year. If the camp program gets too familiar, then campers tend to get bored and may not want to come back. Also, we have a bit of an inside joke that we refuse to play “Duck-Duck-Goose” at Warrior Camp. (Does anyone genuinely pine for this game?) Instead, we prefer designing, customizing, and/or offering games that reach epic, unforgettable proportions, and which unapologetically play upon the chord of boyhood fantasy. Sure, our signature “Kingdom Under Fire” game may require 3 garden hoses, 1 two-way splitter, 2 four-way splitters, 8 water balloon nozzles, 60+ big boxes, eight 200-300 yard water-balloon launchers, and over 1000 water balloons, but what other game makes you feel like you’re in a battle scene from Lord of the Rings? Hop-skotch? Four-square? Ring around the Rosie? Yeah, I think we’ll pass. So, here are our game goals: (1 ) no camper will ever be able to predict what he’s gonna do Warrior Camp, and (2) every camper will have so much epic fun that his future grandkids will hear about it. So, to answer your question…

     1. Go Big or Go Home Philosophy

          a. No Duck-Duck-Goose = Awesome games and game equipment instead

          b. Equipment for epic games = More $, but totally worth it!

     2. Unpredictability: Keeping the Warrior Campers guessing

          a. Element of surprise every year = New camp program every year

          b. New camp program every year = New games, discipleship rallies, and activities

          c. New games, discipleship rallies, and activities = New equipment

          d. New equipment … well, you get the picture

5. What are the biggest expenses for Warrior Camp?

Great question. Here they are in order of largest to smallest:

     1. Game Equipment (for new and/or epic-level games)

     2. Warrior Camp Warehouse Inventory: T-shirts and other souvenirs

     3. Mobility, Transportation, and Fuel

     4. Gratitude and Thanks to Warrior Camp Team

     5. Miscellaneous: discipleship materials, props, fireworks, candy, prizes, etc…

6. How much does it cost for kids or teens to attend Warrior Camp?

Ever find something cool you want at the store, but can't find the price-tag? Yeah, we hate that as much as you do. So, here goes. Warrior Camp costs somewhere between $30-$60 per Warrior. Why the big range? Because some Warrior Camps might be really close to our city, and so we can drive there faster and use less gas. Also, if we have more Warriors who want to come (up to about 40) that helps out a lot too. Other Warrior Camps might be farther away, and the youth pastor or kids’ pastor might want us to bring the very best of the best games. (Somebody has to buy or build all that game equipment!). But here's the kicker: we know kids or students probably don't have the best jobs yet, so we've made it our goal to keep Warrior Camp as affordable as possible so everyone can go. For youth pastors and kids pastors, we have some cool ideas on how to help keep Warrior Camp as affordable as possible, and encourage them to feel free to send us an email. Oh, and don't forget, many summer camps cost $200 or more for about four and a half full days of camp. I'm not a math whiz, but that's about $44.50 per day, which is comparable to what the $ could be for kids or students to attend Warrior Camp. (And we're not bragging, but we honestly think campers will have tons of fun and a spiritually monumental experience at Warrior Camp).

7. Does Warrior Camp generate any profit? If so, where does it go?

Using last year’s model, Warrior Camp covered all of its expenses with approximately 70-80% of the total amount of incoming $ from Warrior Camper Admission. This resulted in 20-30% being left over. This extra $ was then re-invested in the following way, from greatest to smallest:

     1. New or additional game equipment for Warrior Camp(s) the following year

     2. Promo, materials, and mailings

     3. Miscellaneous

8. What is the Warrior Camp Philosophy on $?

Uh oh. Here we go! For starters, we can at least agree that: (1) this is controversial territory, and (2) you can definitely disagree with me and still be a strong Christian with a lot to offer. In fact, I owe a lot of credit here to a friend whom I admire, and who has helped me sharpen my own take on $. So, let’s jump in!

I believe that $ is just one tool in the tool shed. If you have nails to pound, you grab a hammer. If you have bolts to tighten, you reach for a wrench. If you have stuff to buy, you use $. There's no need to worship the tool, worry about the tool, or hesitate to use the tool wisely, effectively, and responsibly. And there's a ton of stuff that is beyond the Christian's God-given reach. Sometimes $ is one of those things, and God does take us to the "school of trust" cause we really need it! Other times, God provides through ways that are so simple and practical that they almost seem "less magical" and less Godly (I'm still curious why that is!), even though God isn't limited to either the mysterious or to the practical. I've seen God provide in huge ways for Warrior Camp. They ways are numerous. His original calling and inspiration. Prayer. Hard work. Seemingly random yet epic game or discipleship ideas which God periodically injects into my head. The spiritual fruit in kid’s lives which we’ve been blessed to hear about afterwards. Having a good job with geographical mobility, and even our first donation ever...God has provided and used all of this stuff for His glory in Warrior Camp in ways that blow me away. Some are mysterious and just seem to happen by His miraculous hand. His call. His anointing. His provision. An unsolicited donation. Others are what we humble mortals might call "practical" and happen through the job, creativity, diligence, advice from family and friends, and the work ethic which He's provided us with and for which we're grateful and seek to labor faithfully. In my humble opinion, I really think both (the mysterious and the practical) are probably equally Godly, and neither one fails to bring Him glory. It all directs the attention upward to Him. It's all for Him, by Him, and to Him.

9. Will Warrior Camp ever ask for $? Why or why not? How can I help Warrior Camp?

Wow. Time to show the cards! Here goes. As I stated earlier, I'm not a big fan of talking about $. I’m even less of a fan when it comes to asking for it. Maybe it’s because asking for $ seems so popular. (If everybody ordered a Coke at Sonic, I’d probably order Pepsi just to do something different!).  Don’t get me wrong. I would never disparage a church for passing the plate. That’s a great way to help fund vital ministries and I’m glad to wholeheartedly participate.

Regarding Warrior Camp, I would never suggest our approach to $ is morally superior. It’s not. But it may be unique.  And it is my own conviction.  My perspective is this: most of you in Warrior Nation have developed a pretty firm grasp of what Warrior Camp is all about. You know enough about us, our goals, our methods, and ministry-DNA to decide if Warrior Camp is a ministry you’d like to link arms with in prayer or sponsorship. If Warrior Camp gets you fired up about imparting God’s vision for manhood to a young generation in a high-octane way, and God moves you, maybe you’ll choose to help sponsor Warrior Camp. If so, let me say personally how grateful we are to have you among those who pray and provide for Warrior Camp. Your prayer and support are a huge encouragement to us which you’ll probably never fully know. But it’s also possible that maybe you won’t choose to support Warrior Camp in this way. Guess what? That’s ok. The sky is not going to fall. Maybe you won’t make a donation at all, but you will pray for us, and for the kids or students whom we have a privilege to minister to. Or maybe you’ll be a “Fire-Starter” and, if there’s a need, you’ll enthusiastically introduce the possibility of Warrior Camp to your youth pastor or kids’ pastor at your church. Your encouragement and support here are also super encouraging to us and not taken for granted. Are we grateful for your support, in whatever form you may choose? Absolutely. Do we ever intend to solicit your $? Not unless God does an extreme makeover on us. Until then, it’s just not how we play!

10. What new, big stuff has Warrior Camp bought recently? What is Warrior Camp planning on purchasing in the near future?

Glad you asked! Here’s the latest.

      Recent Purchases:

          Miscellaneous Game Equipment

          Long Range Megaphone

          High Performance Water balloon Launchers (200-300 yard range)

          Obstacle Course Equipment (for the newly created game “The Crucible”)

          1500 Gallon Swimming Pool (Above-ground and portable)

     Future Purchases/Prospective Purchases/Upcoming Purchases:

          New Warrior Camp T-shirts

          Equipment Trailer

          Snow Cone Machine

          Outdoor sound equipment/speakers

          Additional/New Game Equipment

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Phew!  We successfully crossed that bridge.  Good for us!  (If you read that whole thing, you deserve a medal!).

Thanks again so much for all your prayer, affirmation, and support. You’re a huge encouragement.

Grow strong and God bless,

Derek

PS: Huge praise = we’re taking Warrior Camp on the road to Grandview, Washington in about 3 weeks! We’ll keep you posted!

Warrior Camp Update . 4-22-10

Hello all friends and fans of Warrior Camp!

I hope you're having a great Spring.


The newest Warrior Camp Update has just been posted online. I've included the links below, and hope you enjoy it!


Grow strong and God bless,


Derek

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Warrior Camp Update . Part 1 . 4-22-10
Content: What's new with Warrior Camp now?http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#p/a/u/0/rbQQF5JQVHQ


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Warrior Camp Update . Part 2 . 4-22-10
Content: Info for Youth Pastors and Kids Pastors
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#p/a/u/1/2TG6hWpr0kU


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Warrior Camp Update . 2-13-10

February 13, 2010

Warrior Camp Update

     I wasn’t planning on doing this today. In fact, some days I deliberately avoid it, because I know my tendency to turn Warrior Camp Updates into a marathon email or blog that you avoid reading (cause it’s novel-length) and which ends up being so thorough it burns up my time like a candle marinated in gasoline. (Looks like this could be no exception!). Ever get that feeling that you really want to do something, but you procrastinate and even wince, cause you know what it will require to pull it off well? Yeah, that’s me.

     Or maybe I should say, that’s me…normally. Today though seems different, like now the timing of the “Warrior Camp Update” wasn’t something I jotted on the calendar, where I give everyone a heads up on what God has been doing in the ministry. This time God’s been whispering, preparing me for this moment, and gently prodding in a new direction. Something more personal. “Do it now.”

     I could create another video update, where I get to share how Warrior Camp is now poised to debut in Central Virginia this Spring, on one stellar 162 acre location, complete with the best of all worlds: field, slopes, forest, and pond. That alone is a great story, massive praise, and a huge answer to prayer, and one that leaves me speechless, humbled and unfathomably grateful. It would also be a great kickoff as the first Warrior Camp Update for 2010. (I’m practically still pinching myself, wondering when I’m gonna wake up!). On Thursday, I even got to go sledding at my recently discovered and properly named “Kamikaze Slopes,” where it takes every ounce of will power to override your survival instincts. Then and there, one run was officially coronated as “Speed Demon” and the other “Orbital”. (I’m sure you can guess why). One allowed me to single-handedly be the first man on a tube to break the sound-barrier, and the other enabled me to catch a glimpse of Mercury before finally cratering back on Earth. Somehow, the fact that I even write this blog from the farmhouse (rather than ICU) is a miracle in itself. (For those of you who pray for me, don’t stop!).

     But honestly, the update I had in mind and really wanted to share, involved all the exciting Warrior Camp ministry opportunities that await here at “The Farm” this Spring. I have a blizzard of stuff circulating around in my head right now to share, and realistically, I probably would have fired up the Webcam before the end of the month to relay all the good news and answered prayers. (And maybe we will go there in the near future). But now, God has something different in His mind.

     At the risk of being anti-climactic, it all began yesterday as I was cleaning my room (not my favorite thing to do, ever since I was a kid). I was listening to a song on my computer, cause I still hadn’t retrieved my stereo out of the attic/labyrinth at the Finn House. The Finn House or, “Finn Legendary” as I call it, is my old house, whose land-lord was so busting-proud of being from Finland that he built a sauna in our basement, and many of whose 7 roommates share a common thirst for the epic. Life at the Finn Legendary could inspire movie directors. Blow-Gun wars, food fights, strategizing together against “Gordo,” the grotesquely obese and garden-pillaging gopher, huge and popular Saturday breakfasts dominated by plates of pancakes and followed-up with reading from God’s Word, miniature castle-siege games on the floor, pranks on the sister house, comic retaliation from the sister house, romances with the sister house, snow-battles, snow-ins, house church, movie nights, Wii tournaments, crazy group dances to the adrenalized pulse of a strobe light, guns, sledding and zip-line adventures, camp-outs, bonfires, invincible bonds of friendship, lessons in survival, combat, and girls, spiritual growth and discipleship, and the authentic, immortalizing brotherhood in the sauna at 1:00 a.m. I’ll always consider myself a proud member of our epic Christian bachelor pad, no matter where I lay my head. It’s a chapter in my life story which I’ll cherish forever.

     That was before we took Warrior Camp on the road to Washington this past summer in July 2009. Now, for the first time, upon my arrival back in Virginia, I actually had the chance to fulfill my boyhood fantasy and live in a farm house…on a real farm! (The only rain on my parade occurred during the move, when I saw I would have to rescue my desk and book-shelf, which, along with the yard-sale appearance of the backyard, were at the mercy of the rain and the notoriously invincible red Virginia mud).

     Now, a little over three weeks later, I found myself almost completely moved in, and reflectively organizing my new room while listening to my favorite band play through my nasal laptop speakers. The last few weeks had been a roller-coaster of peaks and valleys, a swirl of emotion. Leaving Idaho, and 2,500 miles later, finding yourself in Virginia. It feels like you’re being transplanted like some uprooted tree, hastily dug out of your native soil in the middle of the night and already Fed-Exed before sunrise. A reluctant good-bye to family made more difficult by endearing time, and at the same time, a joyous reunion with close friends after a long separation. Who would have thought it would be this way? And then, sometimes in life or ministry, you’re surprised to find that things you thought you may only dream about, have now been afforded you. Then a wise saying comes to mind: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” It reminds me of Jesus’ parable of the talents, and His encouraging endorsement to the worthy servants, namely that “You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things” (Matthew 25:23). Then, amidst God’s blessing, with integrity, diligence, gratitude, prayer, and laughter, you want to show yourself faithful, and flourish before the Lord amidst the undeserved favor of Heaven. I think that’s how it should be, how God intends it.

     I’m at a point in my life now where grad school is in my rear view mirror. After studying across an 11-month window, I completed my final language placement exam for German last May. I passed (again, thanks for your prayers!) and received my Master’s Degree and Diploma soon after. I joke with friends about how 2010 will my first year since kindergarten where I haven’t had more academics hanging over my head like a thunder-cloud! And while I wouldn’t want to change a thing about my education (besides adding more recess) I’m certainly enjoying my new found freedom! And yet one thing that is beginning to strike me as a profound mystery is this: as one chapter in your life story concludes, another begins, sometimes with surprising speed. Sure grad school is done, but now should I quit being an East-West pin-ball and start thinking about where to put down more permanent roots? Sure, I don’t have papers to write or finals to study for, so how can I use that extra time to the max for spiritual growth and for Warrior Camp? Then, for movie night at the sister house Thursday, we watched Braveheart. If that doesn’t hit you in the chest like a sledge-hammer and confront you with the reality of what you’re doing with your life, nothing will. And, with Valentines (aka “Single Awareness Day”) approaching, it’s either time to contentedly lock in as a bachelor, or to entertain the feminine mystique. Question of the year: God, where am I going from here?

The song lyrics strike a chord, giving artistic life to the soul-searching saga that stirs,

    The surf and the sky and the Sunshine Coast of gold

     Floating on a long board, life on hold

     I never know the way, but you always take me there

     And I need it now, like the Mooloolaba air

     We’ll roll with the next wave, boys

     We’ll sing out, we’ll make some noise

     God is alive and my magic is no good

     And He’s called me out on this walkabout

     He leads me to water and traces each song line

     And I know to know His ways are higher than mine

     So roll out the road rig, boys

     We’ll sing with a grateful voice

     Let all tears turn to gold

     And the hell that’s raised

     Lord, let it fade away

     As Your glories unfold

     Give us a part to play

     Grant us another day

     Let all tears turn to gold

     And all the hell I’ve raised

     Lord, let it fade away

     As Your glories unfold

     Give me a part to play

     Grant me another day*

     These are exciting times in which we live. When college and grad school are over, and you’ve taken your last exam, that’s when I’m realizing my newest (maybe greatest) adventure is just beginning. Big decisions. Big stakes. Freedom. Uncertainty. The thrill of the unknown. Lots of prayer. Nothing to hold you down. Time to do what you’ve always wanted, and squeal the tires on the way there! I think that’s alot like what Abraham, Moses, David and the apostle Paul felt, when God rocked their world with a huge green light to join an epic adventure with Him. I definitely don’t have all the answers. In fact, the more I think about it, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t want them, even if God offered them to me on a silver platter. Would you? Where’s the excitement, faith, or adventure with God in such a life? Our favorite heroes from the Bible didn’t live like that. They lived their lives by faith, listening for God’s voice, and trusting Him. They seemed to live in the present, with hope for the future, because of what they had seen God actively do in the past on their behalf. Someone once said, “The Christian life is probably both less glamorous and more epic than you’ve been taught. But who would want it any other way?”

     Looking back, it’s exciting to see the big picture of where God has walked with me, and probably where God has walked with you too. Where He’s brought you from. The valleys and peaks, the defeats and the triumphs. Men are forged in such ways. Wallace’s tragic loss of Murron and Scotland’s victorious stand at Stirling seem to be somehow connected. Luther’s daring posting of the 95 theses, and the reformation that rekindled Christ’s church. Israel’s 400 year bondage in slavery, and how their deliverance concretized their hope for the Promised Land.  A man's finest hour often occurs on the heels of his most grueling crucible. 

     I don’t know exactly what’s next, and in some ways, I feel like I can relate to just “floating on a long board”, with life on hold. But more than almost anything, I desire to play my part in God’s unfolding epic. And God’s been telling me to look at the kind of man I wanted to be when I was a young boy. I praise God that I am that man. That’s a win on God’s score-board, and it should be on mine. “Look at what you wanted to do when you were younger?” I thank God that I’m doing what I was made for. “Look at the things you’ve prayed for.” I give Him glory for His abundant and unmerited provision, that He’s a big God! “Look at the joy that is rightly yours.” I can praise Him more and more for His gifts of love and laughter.

     “Where am I going from here?” Perhaps sometimes, there’s a better question we’ll want to ask. “Where am I this second?” And rather than always scanning the horizon with our future-obsessed binoculars, hopefully we can lay those down once in a while and also look at the road behind us with a smile, and say, “I’m where He wants me to be.”

*”RSL 1984” by The Newsboys

Warrior Camp Update . 11-19-09

Hello to all friends and fans of Warrior Camp!

I hope you're doing well, and having a great Fall.

I wanted to let you know, as of today, our latest Warrior Camp Update has been posted to YouTube and Facebook. It includes the latest on our:

Warrior Camp DVD
Warrior Camp T-shirt
Newspaper Coverage
Warrior Camper Feedback
And more...

If you'd like to catch it, I've included the links below:

Warrior Camp Update . 11-19-09

Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#p/a/u/0/9Uog234u8mk

Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#p/a/u/1/YLOtyg0z-G4



Thanks again for all your support and encouragement.

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving and Christmas!

Grow Strong and God bless,

Derek

Warrior Camp Anniversary Update . 9-8-09

Hello all Warrior Camp fans!

Hope you're all doing well and having a great late summer and early fall.

I've got some good news. This is a probably one of our most significant and exciting updates, and I hope you enjoy the recap of what's new with Warrior Camp this summer! You can check it out via the video links below, or soon via facebook through our "Warrior Camp" fanpage.

Grow Strong and God bless,

Derek

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Special Warrior Camp Anniversary Update . 9-8-09

Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#play/uploads

Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#play/uploads/1/6NsOhUs_onk

Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#play/uploads/2/xZPTCQCpKPU

Part 4
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#play/uploads/3/nxPKI1K0RqE

Part 5
http://www.youtube.com/user/warriorcamp1#play/uploads/4/Fyy9P8EHccs

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Warrior Camp Update . 6-15-09

Warrior Camp Update . 6-15-09

Hello all Warrior Camp fans! Hope you're having a great summer.

It’s been awhile, but the new Warrior Camp Update is here, and explores what’s coming up this summer. But instead of a 4 page email, we’re debuting this update through video for the first time. You can check it out via the links below, or on our new facebook fan page called "Warrior Camp".

Hope you enjoy the new format!

Grow Strong and God bless,

Derek

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Warrior Camp Update . 6-15-09 . Video Edition

Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU55AhomnnE&feature=channel_page


Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auqV_UOgdpk&feature=channel_page


Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvuZ8zfgjsA&feature=channel_page

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Warrior Camp Update: 2-24-09

Warrior Camp Update
February 24, 2009


Warrior Camp Team,

Hey! I hope this Warrior Camp Update finds you well. If you're receiving this update, it's either because you're on our Warrior Camp Team, you've given me advice, or because you're one of my friends or family who I thought would like to hear what's new with our camping ministry.

Here's a quick snapshot of what's in this February update:

1. Discipleship Development
2. On the Air
3. Battle Plans
4. Online Presence
5. Weapon Workshop
6. This Summer
7. New Graphic Design
8. Interviews and Feedback
9. New Game Highlights Video
10. Perspectives from Middle Earth
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1. Discipleship Development

Late in 2008, I acquired a PLACE assessment test specifically designed around helping identify natural strengths and spiritual gifts for mature Christ followers obedient in ministry. It was recently used by a leading Christian seminary to help their grad students identify those areas in which they are gifted for ministry within the larger body of Christ. I'm definitely not complaining, but I wish I had something like this when I was in youth group! Statistically, students in youth group who are never integrated into some role or ministry as genuine contributors, have a higher rate of church drop out during their college years. So what's the plan with the PLACE assessment test? To go through and tailor it for students in Jr. High and Highschool, and use it in our discipleship initiatives. If we can help hungry students identify where God has gifted them, they can better serve and take ownership as that part of the body of Christ.


2. On the Air

In the last update, I mentioned how we're working on getting Warrior Camp on the air. The ball is moving forward, and the radio announcement script has finally reached what seems to be the final draft. It's designed to quickly inform area youth pastors in Central Virginia about Warrior Camp, and put them in touch with us as we seek to come alongside of them in ministry to their youth. Thanks to one of my friends for the initial idea of getting Warrior Camp on the air. More to come!


3. Battle Plans

January 10th of 2009 marked my birthday, and one of my good friends actually gave me a "Warrior Camp Battle Plans" book. The cover is adorned with pictures of 7 different warriors. The inside features the Warrior's Creed, Selected Bible Verses, our Vision Statement, scheduling sheets, game specs templates, and insightful information from her own field of expertise. It will definitely be a helpful tool to have on the belt. Thanks so much!


4. Online Presence

In addition to Warrior Camp having it's own webpage and facebook group, we've recently expanded the online presence of our ministry to include Myspace. This will allow campers to keep in touch with each other and the Warrior Camp Leaders, as well as bringing a cool profile loaded with theme-relevant songs to a popular social network. Feel free to check it out, and become a friend.


5. Weapon Workshop

During the Christmas blitz, the Weapon Workshop was running at full speed, cranking out high performance (non-lethal) blow guns for kids to adults ranging from South Carolina to Oregon. On Christmas day, so many people were opening our blow guns, that I honestly felt like a Christmas elf. The feedback was stellar and encouraging, especially as many living rooms across the country were instantly and magically transformed into theaters of dart-tag war. Thanks to all who gave me the chance to bring an extra smile to your Christmas! If you want to check out some of the Christmas blow gun pics, feel free to look up blow gun photo albums 3-6 at: http://s242.photobucket.com/albums/ff194/warriorcamp1/.
Since then, the patenting process for our signature blow guns has moved forward. Within the last 3 weeks, my invention partner and I have reviewed the product portfolio, made some written improvements, finalized the paperwork, and uploaded new photos. The people from the marketing and patenting company have been great to work with, and having hit the ball into their court, the process now approaches the marketing stage. This is a huge praise, and could develop into a great opportunity for Warrior Camp. Your prayers are effective.


6. This Summer

In the last Warrior Camp Update, we shared about the possibility of taking Warrior Camp on the road to Washington state this Summer. The good news is the possibility seems to be ripening. I've talked to the children's pastor, and she thinks Warrior Camp would be highly impacting for her children's program as well as the students in the youth group. She has even volunteered to spread the word to other area youth pastors, as well as give our game highlights dvd to the principal of a local Christian school. This is a big praise, and definitely something to continue praying about.


7. New Graphic Design

I definitely didn't see this one coming, but sometimes good things are like that. In early January, a student in my home church youth group randomly let me know they had a dream about ... a Warrior Camp t-shirt! This student is very artistically talented, and expressed their desire to use their talents for something Godly. So, the student went to work, and created a graphic design for our camp ministry. It's epic, and I was pretty much speechless when I saw it. So I got their permission to post it on our main web page, and you can check it out there now at: warriorcamp1.googlepages.com. Thanks so much to my artistic friend!


8. Interviews and Feedback

While I was home for Christmas break, I got to go out to lunch with the youth pastor of my home church, who was actually the first youth pastor to give Warrior Camp the green light in the Fall of 2007. I look up to this guy alot, and God has definitely used him to grow the youth group of my home church, and in which my own younger brother has genuinely flourished. We were sitting down at a local bookstore and coffeeshop, and for over an hour, laughed while bouncing around from topic to topic. But one area in particular really stood out. My question to him involved where youth are at today, and how ministry should be strategic. Here was a youth pastor on the front lines, and I wanted to know his answer. To be honest, I found it a little surprising. There were two areas which he identified as the greatest need among youth. The first was purity, and it's enemies are numerous. MTV. Girls. Magazines. Internet. Movies. Across the nation and sadly even throughout the church, pornography can haunt men young and old like a persistent phantom. The stats on this demand a sober response from the body of Christ, especially in the area of men leading, fellowshipping, and practicing integrity. But the second area he mentioned, namely, "a near-complete absence of any quality role models" caught me a bit off guard. I've heard the stats on the popularity of broken homes, but math doesn't pack much of a potent punch. He went on to explain how young men without dads or other good role models is an accelerating phenomenon, and the solid family with strong male leadership and initiation into manhood is already an endangered specie. Families which are blessed with the latter are the exception, not the rule. Our hope and prayer is that Warrior Camp might be used by God to target these needs among young men. To challenge them away from filth, compromise and mediocrity, and to provide living, transformed examples who demonstrate the pure and masculine walk with God. And to show them they can do it also.


9. New Game Highlights Video

For the first time in world history, Warrior Camp now has a game highlights video! Thanks to my brother Jaden for the birthday gift! It captures scenes from nearly every game and competition throughout the day, throughout which there were also 3 discipleship rallies. Copies have already been mailed out to friends, a children's pastor, as well as author Stephen Lawhead, whom God used to birth the original vision for Warrior Camp. If you think your youth pastor might be interested in checking it out and/or want a hardcopy, feel free to let me know. If you want to check it out, you can find it on Youtube and Facebook. The youtube link is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoBidJNYK6A&feature=channel_page Hope you enjoy it. Warrior Camp II is in the works.


10. Perspectives from Middle Earth

While I was home for Christmas, I had the chance to revisit the site of our first ever Warrior Camp. My little sister and I threw rocks out onto the frozen lake, laughing as the "singing stones" glided musically across the thin ice. We also saw the game field which hosted many a battle, and took a picture of the God tree under which we had group devotions with 17 students. It was a moving and priceless experience.

During break, I also had the chance to watch The Lord of the Rings with my family. All 3 movies. The extended versions! So it's safe to say we bonded with Frodo and Sam, all the way from the Shire to Mount Doom! My mom loves to get the most out of any experience, and I love her for it. But when you translate that during a movie, it means we have Q and A throughout the entire epic, as well as after Middle Earth has finally been saved from Sauron's slobbering, barbaric hordes. Lucky for me, I had taken an upper-level class on Tolkien. Amid our many conversations, we discussed Tolkien's definition of a hero, which, thanks to my mother, dusted off older insights, challenging me to apply them anew. For Tolkien, a hero never takes a survey to assess the likelihood of success or failure, victory or defeat. This is reminiscent of Gimli's comical line from the film: "Certainty of death. Small chance of success. What are we waiting for?!" Somehow, somewhere, we admire that, want to be like that. For Tolkien, heros were driven by something much deeper, more profound than merely crunching the numbers to assess triumph. Something at the heart-level stirs. In the final battle, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli and Gandalf march to face an army that is much larger, one which is certain to defeat them, not because they entertain a notion of victory, but because they know it is right that they should do so. In another epic, Beowulf slays dragon after dragon, certain that one day he will meet one that will surely overpower him. And yet, his virtue continues as before, as he draws his sword, and enters the fray. For Tolkien then, the answer is this: a hero knows and does what is right, not counting the cost. Enter Sam who nearly drowns for his loyalty to Frodo. Borromir, who even after a seismic sin, sacrifices himself to protect Merry and Pippin. Gandalf confronts his fear and engages the Balrog to save his friends. Aragorn leaps into a lethal flourish against the impossible Nazgul, to safeguard the young hobbits of whom he has taken charge. Do what is right. Count not the cost. Something suggests to us they would not be greats if they did otherwise.

Yet what does all this mean for Warrior Camp? Great question. And you may have some intriguing applications taking shape in your mind already. But after that conversation with my mom in the gym of my brother's ball game, I immediately knew how it applied to Warrior Camp and to me. I don't know if Warrior Camp will ever reach phase 3 or phase 4, where we have 300 young warriors from across the nation for one or two full weeks, building weapons, competing in battle games, hearing the gospel and being genuinely discipled. I don't know if Warrior Camp will ever have it's own medieval-themed campground with a court yard, archery range, castle and functional, full-scale catapults. And I'm not certain God would have me know. However, what I do know is this: it is right that Warrior Camp should exist. That it honors Him. And, God willing, that at every phase and opportunity, we will preach His good news, have fun, and disciple a younger generation in becoming authentic men after God's own heart.

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It's always good to hear from you and what God is doing in your life.


Grow Strong and God bless,


Derek