For Independence Day, the chaplain at our Operation Heal Our Patriots program sent us a short update and prayer requests from the camp this summer
By Chaplain Jim Fisher, who ministers to couples at Operation Heal Our Patriots in Alaska
God’s Spirit certainly seems to be stalking the Operation Heal Our Patriots camp this summer and touching hearts and souls for His Name’s sake. Every week we’ve had at least two commitments to Christ and baptisms. We’ve also had several vow renewals on the beach. One of our volunteer staff members even came to know the Lord after being here for a week.
There are three aspects of the camp that are making it a success. First, we have created an environment that is challenging but not confrontational when it comes to the issue of commitment and faith in Christ.
Secondly, it is the inspired utilization of Spiritual gifts as described in the epistles, especially 1 Corinthians. Staff members are truly utilizing their gifts properly and in synchronization with one another.
At the camp, staff members and volunteers welcome the couples each week. The couples are often in low spirits when they arrive, but they leave refreshed and renewed in God’s Word.
Thirdly, it is the visible example of Christian community among the staff that draws people to say, “I don’t know what it is, but I want what you’ve got!” Well, it’s Jesus of course and living in union with Him and each other. It’s a living example of what 1 John says about love: “They will know we are Christians by our love.” Our veterans and spouses see it, feel it, and experience it here. They want it for themselves, their children, and their families.
Please pray for the right mix of veterans and spouses each week. We have 10 couples each week, but I often talk about the “eleventh couple,” which is the group personality of all the couples combined. Pray that each couple who comes is selected by God to engage in a Divine Encounter and the different couples will mix with maximum effect for spiritual impact and renewal. His plan is combined with our gifts and faithfulness.
And, please continue to pray for the health and daily restoration of each individual on our staff. We put in long hours.
